sentences:  There had been a series of protests at the beginning of the 1970s that raised awareness for back unification but they were met with severe suppression.Prior to 1974, Afro-Bahians would leave their houses with only religious figurines to celebrate Carnival.Though under increased scrutiny attributed to the military dictatorship, Ilê Aiyê succeeded in created a black only "bloco" (Carnaval parade group) that manifested the ideals of the Brazilian Black Movement.