Capoeira Angola

Capoeira Angola (also known as angola or jogo de angola) is a traditional style of capoeira, the Afro-Brazilian martial art. A newer style, developed through a reform of capoeira, is known as regional.

The term capoeira Angola can refer to both earlier forms of capoeira practiced before its 20th-century organization and the contemporary style developed and organized by Mestre Pastinha, who drew on older capoeira traditions.

Although Mestre Pastinha sought to preserve earlier capoeira practices, he also introduced significant changes, including restrictions on weapons and lethal techniques, the adoption of uniforms, the transition of training from streets to academias, and the inclusion of women. For Mestre Pastinha, Capoeira Angola remained "above all, fighting and violent fighting".

The practice of capoeira Angola combines martial techniques with chants, music, and cultural traditions, while emphasizing elements associated with older forms of capoeira developed within Afro-Brazilian communities.

Some practitioners and researchers have proposed connections between capoeira and the Angolan art of engolo, although the nature and extent of this relationship remain debated among scholars.

Capoeira Angola played an important role in the preservation and revival of traditional capoeira music, rituals, and practices within the broader capoeira community.

Name

The name Capoeira Angola reflects the historical association of the term with Angola and with enslaved Africans and their descendants in Brazil who were involved in the development and transmission of capoeira traditions.

History

From its formation to the present day, capoeira has developed into different styles, each shaped by its own interpretations, practices, and interactions with local cultures.