Samba
Although samba exists throughout Brazil – especially in the states of Bahia, Maranhão, Minas Gerais, and São Paulo – in the form of various popular rhythms and dances that originated from the regional batuque of the eastern Brazilian state of Bahia, a music form from Cape Verde, samba is frequently identified as a musical expression of urban Rio de Janeiro, where it developed during the first years of the 20th century. Early styles of samba - and specifically samba de roda - are traced back to the Recôncavo region of Bahia during the 17th century, and the informal dancing following a candomblé ceremony. It was in Rio de Janeiro that the dance practiced by former slaves who migrated from Bahia came into contact with and incorporated other genres played in the city (such as the polka, the maxixe, the lundu, and the xote), acquiring a completely unique character and creating the "samba carioca urbana" (samba school) and "carnavalesco" (Carnaval school director). Samba schools are large organizations of up to 5,000 people which compete annually in the Carnival with thematic floats, elaborate costumes, and original music.
Samba rebellion
The African-born Samba is reported to have participated in a number of revolts back in Africa, and during transit to Louisiana. He is also presented by Le Page du Pratz as having served the French as an interpreter, and a slave overseer. The insurrection was due to take place in June 1731, but is said to have been revealed to the colonial authorities after an argument between an angry slave woman and a drunken French marine. Le Page du Pratz, according to himself, participated in arresting the involved slaves. While Samba refused to reveal any information even under torture, eight other slaves did not. All involved individuals were publicly executed on "Place d'Armes", Jackson Square in New Orleans. The sole woman involved was hanged, while the men were killed by use of the breaking wheel.