Maria Bonita & Lampião
The outlaw lovers of the sertão
Maria Bonita left her husband to follow Lampião, the "King of Cangaço," becoming the first woman of Brazil's northeastern banditry; they died together, ambushed, in 1938.
01Why it matters
They are Brazil's most legendary outlaw lovers, symbols of the sertão's freedom and rebellion.
02The conflict
Life outside the law and the pursuit of the police "volantes."
03The iconic moment
The Angicos ambush where they fell together.
04What survived
The culture of cangaço; the cordel, cinema and music of the Northeast.
05Frequently asked questions
Why is the story of Maria Bonita & Lampião famous?
They are Brazil's most legendary outlaw lovers, symbols of the sertão's freedom and rebellion.
How does the story of Maria Bonita & Lampião end?
The Angicos ambush where they fell together. The culture of cangaço; the cordel, cinema and music of the Northeast.
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