Fernando Henrique Cardoso is a Brazilian sociologist and politician, widely known as FHC. He was born on June 18, 1931, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Cardoso served as the President of Brazil for two consecutive terms from 1995 to 2003.
As a sociologist, Cardoso has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in the area of dependency theory. He co-authored, with Enzo Faletto, the influential book "Dependency and Development in Latin America," which explored the dynamics of economic development in the region and the impacts of external influences on national economies.
Cardoso's political career began in the 1980s, during Brazil's transition from a military dictatorship to a democratic regime. He played a crucial role in the creation of the Brazilian Social Democracy Party (PSDB) and served as the Minister of Finance in the early 1990s.
As President of Brazil, Cardoso implemented several economic reforms, known as the "Real Plan," which successfully tackled hyperinflation and stabilized the economy. He pursued a neoliberal agenda, focusing on privatization, opening up the economy to foreign investment, and promoting social programs targeting poverty reduction.
Cardoso's presidency was marked by economic growth and social advancements. He implemented policies to enhance education, healthcare, and social welfare, prioritizing the reduction of social inequality.
Throughout his career, Fernando Henrique Cardoso has been recognized both nationally and internationally for his contributions to sociology, politics, and economics. He remains an influential figure in Brazil's political landscape, and his ideas continue to shape academic discourses and public policies in the country.
