Recife

Quick Facts: Who was Recife?

Subject:

Recife

Known for:

Capital of Pernambuco, known for its rivers, bridges, and vibrant culture.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Recife ( riss-EE-fee, -⁠fə; Brazilian Portuguese: [ʁeˈsifi] ) is the state capital of Pernambuco, Brazil, on the northeastern Atlantic coast of South America. It is the largest urban area in both the North and the Northeast Region of Brazil. It is the largest city in Pernambuco state, and the fourth-largest urban area in all of Brazil; the metro population of the city of Recife was 3,726,974 in 2022.

Career & Major Achievements

Recife was founded in 1537, serving as the main harbor of the Captaincy of Pernambuco—known for its large-scale production of sugar cane. At one point, it was known as Mauritsstad, when it served as the capital city of the 17th century colony of New Holland of Dutch Brazil (founded by the Dutch West India Company).

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Situated at the confluence of the Beberibe and Capibaribe rivers, before they drain into the South Atlantic Ocean, Recife is a major seaport along the Brazilian Atlantic coast. Its name is an allusion to the stone reefs that are present offshore.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1537: 1537 Milestone — Recife was founded in 1537, serving as the main harbor of the Captaincy of Pernambuco—known for its large-scale production of sugar cane.
2. 2022: 2022 Milestone — It is the largest city in Pernambuco state, and the fourth-largest urban area in all of Brazil; the metro population of the city of Recife was 3,726,974 in 2022.

Notable Quotes by Recife

“The city is a confluence of rivers, bridges, and history.”

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Recife

True or False: “True or False: Recife's unique geography, formed by the confluence of multiple rivers and numerous small islands linked by bridges, gives it a structure often compared to Venice.”

Answer (TRUE ⭕): This comparison is accurate because the city's layout, involving the Beberibe and Capibaribe rivers and their tributaries, along with over 50 bridges, creates a distinct maritime 'riviera' feel.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Aaron Carter — Historical peer (Died in 2022) (2022): American singer and rapper known for teen pop stardom and enduring musical career.
• Alexander Vovin — Historical peer (Died in 2022) (2022): Pioneering Russian-American linguist specializing in East Asian languages, particularly Japanese.
• Ashikaga Yoshiaki — Historical peer (Born in 1537) (1537): The 15th Shogun who struggled to maintain the Ashikaga authority against rising warlords.
• Edward VI — Historical peer (Born in 1537) (1537): Protestant monarch of England; reigned 1547–1553, initiating major religious reforms.

Frequently Asked Questions about Recife