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| 1969–73 |
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| Brazil underwent its “economic miracle,” involving denationalization of key sectors. State industries were used to provide cheap steel, power, and raw materials to foreign firms, leading to massive increases in exports (12 percent annually between 1969 and 1972). There was, however, no concomitant jump in domestic consumption. Income remained concentrated in relatively few hands as real wages fell. Imports of oil and other goods also created a trade deficit and increased the debt. | 1 |
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| 1969, July 13 |
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| Destruction of the TV station in São Paulo by leftist bombing. Rapid development and spread of urban guerrilla movements were marked by kidnappings and bombings. | 2 |
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| Aug. 31 |
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| Pres. Costa e Silva was incapacitated by a stroke. A triumvirate of military chiefs assumed control. | 3 |
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| Sept. 4 |
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| C. Burke Elbrick, the U.S. ambassador, was kidnapped by guerrillas and threatened with execution unless the Brazilian government released 15 political prisoners within 48 hours. The ambassador was released when the government complied (Sept. 7). This was followed in 1970 by similar kidnappings of Japanese, West German, and Swiss diplomats. | 4 |
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| Oct. 7 |
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| The military junta named hard-liner Gen. Emilio Garrastazú Médici as president. | 5 |
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