"Throughout the last century, the idea of popular culture in Brazil was intertwined with matters affecting the nation and national identity – symbols and practices that in combination became representative emblems of the essence of the country. However, there is a structural ambiguity that pervades and constitutes the idea of popular culture among us. At the same time, popular culture can undeniably be equated with the nation, since the weaknesses and social disruptions that have beset Brazilian history are constantly being examined and debated. These include colonialism, slavery, imperialism, backwardness/underdevelopment, social inequality and ethnic/racial exclusion." (Page 510)