Livestock spatial trajectory in the Pará amazon

from fields to forests

Abstract

In this article, we present a synthesis of the livestock spatial trajectory in the Pará Amazon, taking as a reference two distinct phases. The first phase covers the period of 1616-1952, which is a period when livestock is marked by its location in areas of natural pasture, with a markedly extensive production and a low productivity. The second phase of livestock farming comprises the period of 1964-1989, in which there is a herd displacement towards forests areas. State policies undertaken by military governments had special impact on Pará livestock trajectory. The approach adopted shows the historical foundation which was left on the region by this activity, as well as its importance in the context of occupation and of economic exploitation on the Amazon regional space. With this article, we hope to contribute in some way to the understanding of livestock trajectory in the Brazilian Amazon.