Backed by Brazil’s wealthy agri-business groups, a growing evangelical movement, and an emboldened military and police force, Jair Bolsonaro took to office in 2019. Driven by the former army captain’s brand of controversial, aggressive rhetoric, the divisive presidential campaign saw fake news and misinformation shared with Bolsonaro’s tens of millions of social media followers.

Bolsonaro promised simple solutions to Brazil’s rising violent crime, falling living standards and widespread corruption, but what has emerged is Latin America’s most right-wing president since the military dictatorships of the 1970s. Famous for his racist, homophobic and sexist beliefs and his disregard for human rights, the so-called ‘Trump of the Tropics’ has established a reputation based on his polemic, sensationalist statements.

Written by a journalist with decades of experience in the field, Beef, Bible and bullets is a compelling account of the origins of Brazil’s unique brand of right-wing populism. Lapper offers the first major assessment of the Bolsonaro government and the growing tensions between extremist and moderate conservatives.

One of the clearest pictures of Brazil in 2021 and how it got there. A must-read for anyone covering Latin America.’ — The Times

‘Beef, Bible and Bullets is an engaging, thoughtful and timely book which leaves the reader anxious for the future of Brazil.’ — TLS

‘Sweeping and refreshing.’ — Financial Times

‘Gracefully tackles a perplexing conundrum.’ — Foreign Affairs