In the late 1970s, Brazil was under the grip of a brutal military dictatorship. The government ruled through fear and terror, silencing any form of opposition and suppressing the voices of the people. But in the midst of this dark period, something remarkable happened. The massive metalworkers’ strikes of 1979 and 1980, led by the current President Luíz Inácio Lula da Silva, changed everything. This is episode 15 of Stories of Resistance, a story of courage, determination, and the power of the people to bring about change.

The military dictatorship in Brazil began in 1964, when the government was overthrown in a coup d’état. The new regime quickly established itself as a repressive and authoritarian regime, with strict censorship laws and a disregard for human rights. Any form of dissent was met with harsh punishment, and the people lived in constant fear of the government.

But despite the oppressive environment, the Brazilian people refused to be silenced. In the late 1970s, a group of metalworkers in São Paulo, led by Lula da Silva, organized a strike to demand better wages and working conditions. This was a bold move, as strikes were illegal under the military regime. But the metalworkers were determined to fight for their rights and were willing to risk everything.

The strike began in April 1979 and quickly gained momentum, with thousands of workers joining in solidarity. The military government responded with violence, sending in the police to break up the protests and arresting hundreds of workers. But the metalworkers remained steadfast, and their determination only grew stronger.

As the strike continued, it became a symbol of resistance against the oppressive regime. People from all walks of life joined in support, including students, intellectuals, and even other workers from different industries. The strike was no longer just about better wages and working conditions; it was a fight for freedom and democracy.

The government, realizing the power of the people, attempted to negotiate with the metalworkers. But Lula da Silva and his fellow leaders refused to back down, demanding not only better working conditions but also an end to the military dictatorship. The strike continued for 41 days, and in the end, the metalworkers emerged victorious.

The strike had a ripple effect throughout Brazil, inspiring other workers to stand up against the government. In 1980, another massive strike took place, this time in the industrial city of São Bernardo do Campo. Again, Lula da Silva and the metalworkers played a crucial role in organizing and leading the strike. This time, their demands also included the release of political prisoners and the restoration of civil rights.

The strike in São Bernardo do Campo lasted for 41 days and became the largest strike in Brazilian history, involving over 1 million workers. The government responded with even more violence, but the people’s determination could not be crushed. In the end, the strike achieved its goals, and the military dictatorship was forced to make concessions.

The metalworkers’ strikes of 1979 and 1980 marked a turning point in Brazilian history. It showed that the people, united and determined, could bring about change even in the face of a repressive regime. The strikes also paved the way for the end of the military dictatorship in 1985 and the return of democracy to Brazil.

But the impact of these strikes went beyond political change. It also gave birth to the Workers’ Party (PT), which was founded by Lula da Silva and other leaders of the metalworkers’ union. The PT went on to become one of the most influential political parties in Brazil, with Lula da Silva serving as President from 2003 to 2010.

Today, as we look back on the metalworkers’ strikes of 1979 and 1980, we are reminded of the power of the people to resist and overcome oppression. It is a story of courage, determination, and the unwavering spirit of the Brazilian people. And as we continue to face challenges and struggles, may we draw inspiration from this episode of Stories of Resistance and remember that change is possible when we stand together.