At the beginning of the 20th century, Baron of Rio Branco reflects on Brazil's national identity, education and diplomatic challenges.

• Personal notebook of the Baron of Rio Branco.
• 246 handwritten pages.
• In Portuguese.
• 16.5 cm x 22 cm x 2.5 cm.
• Between 1900 and 1915.
• No location information.
• Good condition.
• Unique piece.
  

Baron of Rio Branco wrote this notebook as a collection of notes and drafts, reflecting his extensive work on diplomacy, history and international law, especially in the context of the formation and consolidation of Brazil's borders. The main themes that emerge from these writings are national education, the definition of Brazilian identity, territorial conflicts with neighboring countries and the rigorous application of international law.

A significant aspect of these notes concerns education and public schooling in Brazil . Baron do Rio Branco addresses the structure of secondary and university education, including discussions of the creation of a "National College" and preparatory studies for university. He also explores access to education, "freedom of education," and the influence of culture on public education, and also considers educational reforms inspired by foreign models, such as the "Prussian reform."

The notebook reveals a constant concern with national identity and Brazilian domestic politics . Baron of Rio Branco explores the “national character” and the “existence of Brazilian nationality.” He also makes reference to social and political reforms, as well as key historical events, demonstrating an interest in the construction of the Brazilian state and its institutions, such as the “Brazilian Permanent Court.”

A central theme is the management of Brazil's border conflicts and tensions with its South American neighbors . The notebook documents military incidents and diplomatic discussions in detail. There is mention of armed incursions and the need to defend the territory. The notes reveal the complexity of the challenges faced by Baron Rio Branco in defending Brazilian interests while seeking to avoid open war.

Dozens of pages focus specifically on the border disputes between Brazil and Peru . Baron do Rio Branco details the clashes in the Alto Purus and Chandless regions, the blockades and the arrests. He justifies the Brazilian actions as legitimate defense measures against the “Peruvian invaders” (often “caucheros” and armed detachments), while insisting on respect for private property even in times of conflict.

The issue of Acre, a territory disputed with Bolivia, is the subject of an in-depth analysis. Baron of Rio Branco reports on the military events, especially the actions of Plácido de Castro and the capture of Puerto Alonso. He examines the territorial arguments of both countries, the existing treaties and the economic implications linked to Acre's customs revenues, demonstrating the strategic and economic importance of this region for Brazil.

International law and diplomacy are the cornerstones of his work, as evidenced by in-depth discussions on sovereignty, neutrality, arbitration, and state responsibility . Baron of Rio Branco analyzes the legal definitions of the power to compromise and make commitments, the conditions of “military necessity,” and the rules governing international rivers. He insists on the importance of “justice and equity” in resolving disputes and cites legal doctrines (such as that of Calvo) and precedents from arbitration courts.

The presence of a final “Bibliographia”, citing renowned jurists such as Westlake, Contazzi and Pradier Faderé, shows the depth of his research and the academic basis on which he built his diplomatic arguments to defend Brazil’s interests.

The set is difficult to read, but of great intellectual interest and enormous historical importance.