Á margem da "palavra oficial": dissimulação e boatos no motim de Vila Rica

Abstract

This research analyzes the Villa Rica Riot in 1720, emphasizing the local elite's reaction to the centralizing policy undertaken by the Earl of Assumar. The presence of a political behavior based on values whose historical origin goes back to the Portuguese Restoration of 1640 may be observed. Accordingly, we point out the riot leaders’ actions in 1720 that supported in such values and at local level, in popular dissatisfaction resulting from the implementation of new tax changes, notably the capitation and implementation system of Foundry Houses began to defend their political interests in the region secretly seeking to plot the expulsion of Minas governor accusing him of being a tyrannical and unjust ruler. Thus, this research aims to highlight the importance of the use of concealment and one of its most important elements, the rumors, as political action strategies used by rebel leaders - element still not explored by historiography.