The Corso debuted in 1907 as a parade of cars—a precursor to the incredible floats we see today. In 1911 the first Ranchos Carnavalescos occurred—costumed performers accompanied by musicians joined in.
Which brings us to the heart and soul of Brazil Carnival: Samba. Samba originated in Rio as a ritual Candoble dance accompanied by clapping and drums. In the late 1800s, a Candoble priestess named Tia Ciata held community meetings with live music and people dancing Samba.
