This study applies the paradigm of center _ periphery relations in the context of colonial Brazil at two levels: first, metropolis _ colony; secondly, intracolonial. The author examines political, social, administrative, economic and cultural dimensions to what was a dynamic. The author demonstrates how metropolitan hegemony and the mercantilist principle were progressively undermined by systemic descentralization and the practice of negotiated authority. He concludes that the history of Colonial Brazil is a trajectory toward increasing autonomy, self reliance, and creation of self identification with Brazil.
Luso-Brazilian; Center; Periphery