Published on March 31, 2026
Jair Bolsonaro is a Brazilian politician and retired military officer who served as the 38th president of Brazil from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2022. Known for his far-right policies and controversial statements, Bolsonaro has been a polarizing figure in Brazilian politics.
Born on March 21, 1955, in Glicério, São Paulo, he graduated from the Agulhas Negras Military Academy in 1977 and began his military career. Bolsonaro served in the Brazilian Army for 17 years before entering politics. He was first elected to the Chamber of Deputies in 1991, representing the state of Rio de Janeiro, where he served multiple terms.
A member of the Social Liberal Party (PSL) during his presidential campaign, Bolsonaro’s platform focused on reducing crime, promoting economic growth, and shifting leftist policies prevalent in Brazil. His approach to governance was marked by a strong emphasis on law and order, and he often advocated for the expansion of gun rights.
Bolsonaro’s time in office was characterized , particularly regarding his handling of the Amazon rainforest and the COVID-19 pandemic. His administration faced criticism for policies that many argued contributed to increased deforestation and weakened environmental protections. Additionally, his response to the pandemic drew backlash as he often downplayed the severity of the virus and criticized measures such as lockdowns and vaccinations.
In the 2022 presidential election, Bolsonaro ran for re-election but was defeated Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, a significant political opponent. Following the election results, Bolsonaro faced numerous challenges, including protests and unrest from supporters who questioned the integrity of the electoral process.
Beyond his political career, Bolsonaro has made headlines for his statements on various social issues, including LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, and race. These remarks have often sparked outrage and led to widespread criticism from human rights advocates and opposition figures.
Throughout his career, Bolsonaro has been a contentious figure, embodying both strong support among his base and vehement opposition from his critics. His presidency reshaped Brazilian politics, revealing deep divides within the nation and raising questions about the future direction of the country post-Bolsonaro.