Contestado and the past that does not pass

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to examine the developments of the nationalization process of the Southern Brazil Lumber and Colonization Company, culminating in the transformation of its headquarters in the Training Field “Marechal Hermes”. The approach considers the focus of English Social History - particularly the notions suggested by Thompson (2021) - from the perspective of reciprocity between the working class and the ruling classes, as well as their relations with the State. The research methodology employed was dialectical, recognizing that facts cannot be regarded in isolation from their social context. It analyzes contradictions that go beyond superficial appearances and seeks comprehensive solutions. The results of the present study outline several findings, including the transformations in the organizational culture of Lumber Incorporated following the assumption of administrative control by the military; the apparent irregularities in the process of selling the assets of Lumber Incorporated; suspicions regarding the actions of the former governor of the state of Santa Catarina, Irineu Bornhausen; the ulterior motives behind the actions of businessman Alberto Dalcanale, who transferred the land area of Lumber Incorporated's headquarters to the Ministry of War; the plight of Lumber Incorporated's workers during prolonged salary payment delays; the unjust process of expropriating land areas adjacent to Lumber Incorporated for the purpose of military field expansion. The presence of Lumber Company wielded a significant and influential role, ultimately shaping the trajectory of events within the region under its sphere of influence.

Key words: Lumber Company. Nationalization. Contestado.