On this day, the Brazilian revolutionary, Joaquim José da Silva Xavier, commonly known as “Tiradentes” (toothpuller), was hanged and quartered. While working as a dentist, a peddlar and a miner, Tiradentes started to perceive the massive exportation of gold to Portugal as exploitation of his fellow citizens, and in 1788 he joined the revolutionary movement, Inconfidência Mineira. His plan was to take to the streets of Vila Rica and proclaim a Brazilian Republic on the day of the derrama, when tax was due to Portugal and the sentiment of revolt would be strong. Unfortunately for him, one of his fellow conspirators exposed the plot in exchange for a tax waiver and the rebels were captured. After a three year trial, Tiradentes was sentenced to death.
