| Brazilian writer Date of Birth: 25.08.1944 Country: Brazil |
Frei Betto, born Carlos Alberto Libanio Christo, was a Brazilian writer, liberation theologian, and Dominican friar. He was born in 1944 in Ipatinga, Brazil.
During the Brazilian dictatorship, Betto engaged in resistance movements. He supported the National Liberation Action and aided individuals seeking refuge from police repression. For this activism, he was arrested and imprisoned for four years, where he endured torture.
As a liberation theologian, Betto dedicated his life to advocating for the marginalized and oppressed. He believed in the integration of faith and social action, emphasizing the importance of liberation from poverty, inequality, and injustice.
Betto was a prolific writer, penning numerous books on theology, politics, and social issues. His work was translated into over 30 languages, reaching a global audience. He collaborated with renowned cultural figures such as Gabriel García Márquez, Eduardo Galeano, and Pablo Milanés.
In 2006, Betto joined a group of prominent cultural figures in demanding independence for Puerto Rico. He believed in the right of all nations to self-determination and the importance of sovereignty for the people of Puerto Rico.
Frei Betto's legacy lives on through his writings, activism, and unwavering commitment to social justice. He was a tireless advocate for the poor and oppressed, inspiring countless individuals with his message of hope and liberation. Betto died in 2018, leaving behind a lasting impact on Brazilian society and the global fight for human rights.