Ernesto Geisel

Geisel began the process of abertura (political opening) in 1974, a gradual and controlled transition from military rule to democracy. He allowed limited political opposition and reduced censorship, though repression continued.

Ernesto Geisel was appointed president of Brazil by the military high command in 1974, serving from March 15, 1974, to March 15, 1979. He was the fourth president of the military dictatorship that began in 1964.

Geisel signed a nuclear cooperation agreement with West Germany in 1975, which included the transfer of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. The deal was controversial due to concerns about nuclear proliferation.

During Geisel's presidency, the military regime continued to repress leftist opposition. The 1975 Riocentro incident, where a bomb exploded at a concert, was blamed on leftists but later revealed to be a false flag operation by hardline military elements.

Geisel dismissed Army Minister Silvio Frota in October 1977, who opposed the abertura and represented hardline military factions. This move consolidated Geisel's control over the transition process and prevented a coup by hardliners.