Book review Vida e Obra do Comendador Montenegro. Um Lousãnense visionário no Brasil, by Sônia Maria de Freitas [(2013). São Paulo: Polo Printer. ISBN 978-85-65943-31-4

Abstract

The book "Vida e Obra do Comendador Montenegro. Um Lousanense visionário no Brasil", by Prof. Sonia Maria de Freitas, is a biographical account about João Elisário de Carvalho Montenegro. Even if highly praised by his contemporaneous, Montenegro is a relatively less known figure in the Brazilian historiography -except by the more classical studies-, despite his many contributions to technological adoption, contractual innovations in Brazilian labor markets, and active participation in benefit associations. Prof. Freita's book is thus a welcomed work. It will consolidate as an important reference to scholars interested in the transition from slavery in Brazil; foster research about labor organizations in Latin American plantations; and provide a pleasant reading to a broader audience.Born in Portugal, the future Comendador Montenegro immigrated to Brazil in 1841 as a salesman and later became a prominent figure in the transition from slavery. Montenegro settled in the municipality of Espírito Santo do Pinhal, in the countryside of São Paulo, where he