During the late 1860s Southerners dissatisfied with the outcome of the Civil War and fearful of the extent of Union reprisals migrated to Brazil to build a new life for themselves. The Confederados--the great majority from Alabama and Texas--began a century-long adventure to establish a new homeland and to preserve important elements of their Old South heritage.

For more than a hundred years, descendants of the original settlers have largely maintained their language and customs while contributing to Brazil's economy and society. Here, scholars from many fields examine every aspect of this unique mingling of cultures within the larger historical and cultural context.

Cyrus B. Dawsey is Professor of Geography and Director of the Institute for Latin American Studies at Auburn University. James M. Dawsey is Dean of the Faculty at Emory and Henry College. Michael L. Conniff is Professor and Director of Latin American and Caribbean Studies at the University of South Florida.