Campina Grande history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Campina Grande dates back to the late 17th century. The official founding date is considered to be December 1, 1697, when Captain Teodósio de Oliveira Ledo led a group of Ariús Indians to settle these lands. Initially, it was a small settlement consisting of a few huts, which over time evolved into the first street of the future city. In 1790, the settlement received village status (Vila Nova da Rainha), and on October 11, 1864, it was officially recognized as a city.

Key Factors of Development

The growth and development of Campina Grande were driven by several important factors:

• Geographical Location: The city is situated in a strategically important location, on the route between the coast and the inland, arid regions (sertão), making it a natural hub for traders and travellers.
• Trade: Initially, the settlement was a stopping point for tropeiros — travelling traders who transported livestock and various goods. Later, the city became a key node for the cotton trade, which gave it a powerful economic boost.
• Railway: The construction of the railway in the early 20th century significantly accelerated the city's development, cementing its status as the main commercial centre of the region.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The economy of early Campina Grande was closely linked to agriculture and trade. At first, the main activity was cattle ranching, but by the 19th century, the city had transformed into the capital of "white gold" — cotton. The development of the cotton industry contributed to population growth and strengthened its economic influence. The city's cultural life was also vibrant; for instance, it hosts one of the world's largest June festivals (Festa de São João), a tradition that goes deep into history.

Key Dates in the History of Campina Grande

The history of Campina Grande is a journey from a modest settlement to one of the most important centres in northeastern Brazil. Below are the main milestones in the city's development.

• 1697 — Captain Teodósio de Oliveira Ledo founds a settlement for the Ariús tribe Indians, which is considered the starting point in the city's history.
• 1769 — The settlement officially receives district status (freguesia) under the name Nossa Senhora da Conceição.
• 1790 — The district is upgraded to a village (vila) and named Vila Nova da Rainha, strengthening its administrative importance.
• 1824 — The city becomes the stage for one of the episodes of the Confederation of the Equator — a republican separatist movement.
• October 11, 1864 — Vila Nova da Rainha officially receives city status and reclaims the popular name Campina Grande.
• 1907 — The railway arrives in the city, radically changing its economy and turning Campina Grande into the region's main cotton trading hub.
• 1920s — Campina Grande experiences the "golden age" of cotton, becoming the second-largest export centre for this commodity in the world after Liverpool.
• 1943 — Construction of the Açude Novo dam, which becomes an important water supply source and one of the city's landmarks.
• 1952 — The Federal University of Paraíba is founded (today the Federal University of Campina Grande), laying the foundation for the city's transformation into a technological and educational centre.
• 1960s — With the decline of the cotton industry, the city begins to diversify its economy, developing industry and the service sector.
• 1983 — The "O Maior São João do Mundo" (The World's Largest St. John's Festival) is held for the first time, eventually becoming the city's main cultural event and attracting millions of tourists.
• 2000s — The city strengthens its status as a "technological pole," thanks to the development of IT companies and research centres.

The history of Campina Grande is a vivid example of how strategic location and the enterprising spirit of residents can turn a small settlement into one of the most important centres of northeastern Brazil. The city has journeyed from a modest haven for traders to a technological and cultural pole of the region.

Key Milestones in the History of Campina Grande:

• Foundation and Establishment as a Trading Hub (1697): The city's history began with a small settlement founded for the indigenous people of the Ariús tribe. Thanks to its location on the route between the coast and the arid interior regions, it quickly became an important stopover for tropeiros traders transporting livestock and goods.
• Obtaining City Status (1864): On October 11, 1864, after a period of growth as a village named Vila Nova da Rainha, the settlement was officially recognized as a city, giving new impetus to its administrative and social development.
• The Era of "White Gold" (Late 19th – Early 20th Centuries): The city transformed into a global capital of the cotton trade, earning the nickname "Liverpool of the Tropics." This economic boom attracted many migrants and capital to Campina Grande, shaping it as a major economic centre.
• Arrival of the Railway (1907): The construction of the railway line was a revolutionary event. It significantly simplified the export of cotton to the port and the delivery of goods, firmly establishing the city's status as the main commercial centre of the state of Paraíba.
• Cultural Phenomenon — São João Festival: Over time, traditional June celebrations in honour of Saint John (São João) grew into a grand festival known as "The World's Largest São João." This event attracts millions of tourists and is a hallmark of the city, making a huge contribution to its cultural life and economy.
• Transformation into a Technological Centre (Second Half of the 20th Century): With the opening of universities, particularly the Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG), the city became one of the leading technological and innovation hubs in Brazil, especially in the field of information technology. This attracted new investments and qualified specialists.
• Modern Centre of Services and Trade: Today, Campina Grande is the main pole of commerce, education, and medical services for the entire interior region, confirming its status as the "Queen of the Borborema" — a central figure on the plateau of the same name.

The architectural appearance of Campina Grande is a visual history of its economic and social development. The city cannot boast an abundance of colonial buildings, as its rapid growth occurred in the late 19th and 20th centuries; however, it demonstrates interesting examples of Eclecticism, Art Deco, and Brazilian Modernism.

Eclecticism and Art Deco: Heritage of the "Cotton Boom"

The golden age of Campina Grande, associated with the cotton trade in the early 20th century, left the most noticeable mark on the historic centre. During this period, key public and commercial buildings were erected, shaping the city's appearance.

• Eclectic Style: Many buildings of that time combined elements of Neoclassicism, Neo-Baroque, and other European styles. A striking example is the Commercial Association of Campina Grande building (Associação Comercial de Campina Grande). These buildings symbolized the wealth and influence of the local elite.
• Art Deco: In the 1920s–1940s, structures in the Art Deco style appeared in the city, characterized by strict geometric lines, ornaments, and the use of materials modern for that time. An iconic object of this era is the Cine Capitólio cinema, which, despite changes, has preserved features of this elegant style.

Brazilian Modernism and City Development

From the mid-20th century, with the emergence of the university and the diversification of the economy, Modernism began to dominate the city's architecture. This style, which became widespread throughout Brazil, emphasized functionality, simple forms, and the use of reinforced concrete.

• University Campus: The buildings of the Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG), founded in the 1950s, are classic examples of Brazilian Modernism. They are characterized by open spaces, pilotis (support pillars), sun protection structures (brise-soleil), and integration with the landscape.
• Public Buildings: During this period, new administrative and public buildings were constructed, reflecting a striving for progress and functionality, moving away from the decorative opulence of the past.

Modern Stage: From Functionalism to Verticalization

The modern urban development of Campina Grande is defined by its status as a technological and service centre. The new architecture is pragmatic and follows global trends. The city is actively seeing high-rise residential construction, and modern shopping centres and office buildings made of glass and concrete are appearing. Central districts are densifying, and urban development is expanding along major transport arteries, reflecting the dynamic growth of the population and economy.

Prominent Figures Connected to Campina Grande

The city of Campina Grande has gifted Brazil and the world with many talented people in various fields — from music and politics to sports and art. Here are some of the most iconic figures whose lives and careers are closely linked to the city:

• Jackson do Pandeiro (1919–1982) — Musician, singer, and composer. Although born in a neighbouring town, it was in Campina Grande that he spent his youth and began his artistic journey. Nicknamed the "King of Rhythm," he became one of the greatest innovators and popularizers of northeastern Brazilian music, including samba, forró, and coco.
• Genival Lacerda (1931–2021) — Singer and composer born in Campina Grande. He was one of the most famous performers of forró, renowned for his humorous style and hits such as "Severina Xique-Xique." Over his long career, he recorded dozens of albums, leaving a bright mark on the region's culture.
• Ronaldo Cunha Lima (1936–2012) — Politician and poet. He served as Mayor of Campina Grande, Governor of the State of Paraíba, and Senator. It was during his tenure as mayor that the Parque do Povo (People's Park) was created, the central venue for "The World's Largest June Festival" (O Maior São João do Mundo), which forever changed the cultural and tourist landscape of the city.
• Hulk (Givanildo Vieira de Sousa, born 1986) — World-famous footballer. Born and raised in Campina Grande, he became one of the city's most recognizable athletes. Hulk has played for leading clubs in Europe and Asia, such as Porto and Zenit, and represented the Brazilian national team at the 2014 World Cup and other major tournaments.
• Antônio Silva (born 1979) — Mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter, known by the nickname "Bigfoot." A native of Campina Grande, he competed in the most prestigious global promotions, including the UFC, and gained fame for his heavyweight bouts.
• Mike Deodato Jr. (born 1963) — Comic book artist. Born in Campina Grande, he achieved international recognition working on popular series for industry giants such as Marvel Comics (e.g., "The Amazing Spider-Man," "Avengers") and DC Comics.