The history of “cachaça” blends with the history of Brazil at all times. In colonial times, the production of “cachaça” had already consolidated as an important economic activity in Brazil, which eventually led to a reduction in the consumption of “bagaceira,” a distilled drink originating in Portugal.
Concerned with the growth of “cachaça,” the Portuguese, through a Royal Charter dated September 13, 1649, prohibited the manufacture and sale of “cachaça” throughout the Brazilian territory.
However, sugarcane plantation and still owners rebelled against the Portuguese crown and, on September 13, 1661, seized power in Rio de Janeiro, one of the first national insurrection movements that became known as the “Cachaça” Uprising. Since then, the National “Cachaça” Day is celebrated on September 13.