The aim of this article is to call attention to the paradoxical linking between the concepts of race and racism. Having this in mind, my attempt is to visualize the early history of Brazilian anti-racism during the turbulent 1830's. By this time, presently known as the Era of Regency, the word race was yet far from being instilled in one' s mind as a scientific truth either in biological or cultural terms. As we shall see the struggle against "prejudice of color", and in defense of citizenship, pointed toward the rejection of the public recognition of "race".
anti-racism; Brazilian citizenship; racism; Regency Era