This paper discusses the impact of Cisplatine Wars (1811-1828) on the experiences of slaves and free men in the frontier of Brazil with Rio de la Plata. It analyzes their participation in the Luso-Brazilian army and in the troops commanded by general José Artigas. It suggests that the Cisplatine Wars and the movements of independence in Rio de la Plata and Brazil inaugurated a process of restructuring of slavery in Rio Grande do Sul, bringing in itself complex implications for the social integration of slaves and free men.
slavery; free men; Cisplatine Wars; José Artigas; Rio Grande do Sul; 19th century