23 Mar MARIA 12 HOMENS

MARIA 12 HOMENS | Maria Felipa de Oliveira

During Brazil’s struggle for independence in 1822, one extraordinary woman rose as a symbol of courage and leadership: Maria Felipa de Oliveira from the island of Itaparica, Bahia.

Known as “Maria 12 Homens” (Maria Twelve Men) because of her remarkable strength and bravery, Maria Felipa organized and led a group of 40 women in resistance against Portuguese forces. According to historical accounts, these women carried out a daring attack that burned 42 Portuguese ships, helping prevent the Portuguese navy from reinforcing their control over Salvador.

Maria Felipa was a marisqueira (shellfish gatherer), community leader, and Capoeira practitioner. She and her group used creative tactics, including branches of cansanção plants—which cause intense itching—to fight enemy soldiers.

Her leadership helped secure a strategic advantage for Brazilian forces and contributed to the Independence of Brazil. Today, Maria Felipa is celebrated as a symbol of strength, resilience, and the powerful role of women in shaping history.