Linguistic imperialism is a concept used by the scholar Robert Phillipson, he mainly spoke about the imperialism of the English language, although this concept can be applied to all major international languages ​​of the world of imperialist origin, when the original population had to adopt the language of the invader due to the advantages that accrued to the speakers of these languages ​​when the dominant language was imposed (Phillipson 31). Linguistic imperialism in Latin America began with the “discovery” and occupation of the New World by European powers. The Spanish and Portuguese language was imposed on local populations and many indigenous languages ​​therefore disappeared. This essay will focus particularly on Brazil and the linguistic imperialism of Portuguese in that country. Although many former European colonies, including Portugal, have gained political independence, a kind of cultural colonization still exists. Specifically linguistic practices are strongly associated with colonial domination (Migge 1). Portuguese did not become the official language until the 18th century, when a new wave of Portuguese immigrants arrived in Brazil due to the discoveries of gold and diamonds (Rajagopalan 81). Since 1988, the rights of Brazil's indigenous peoples have been recognized and until that time, they were deprived of their identity and language. Portuguese is the official and most widely spoken language in Brazil (CIA World Factbook). Brazilians defined their language as "Brazilian Portuguese" in order to distinguish it from the original language of the Portuguese conquerors. This essay will mainly focus on the linguistic uses, values ​​and functions of Portuguese in Brazil. Portugal is the largest country in the world...... middle of paper ......ence (Migge 14). Brazilians Portuguese is widely used by the Brazilian population. For them, this language is very precious and has an important function in the construction and maintenance of Brazilian identity. Works Cited CIA World Factbook. South America, Brazil, society and people. 11/26/2013. WebJoseph, J. Language and politics. Edinburgh University Press. Edinburgh. 2006. PrintMigge, B. Language and colonialism (Applied linguistics in the context of Creole communities). University College Dublin. Ireland. 2007. PrintPhillipson, R. Linguistic Imperialism. Oxford University Press, Oxford. 1992. PrintRajagopalan, K. Language Policy in Latin America. State University of Campinas. Brazil (undated). PrintRagagopolan, K. The role of geopolitics in language planning and language policy in Brazil. State University of Campinas. Brazil 2008. Print