Racism, Eugenics and Childhood in the Mental Hygiene Movement of São Paulo (1926-1959)

Abstract

Mental hygiene in Brazil is closely intertwined with the Brazilian League of Mental Hygiene (LHBM), established in 1923, in Rio de Janeiro city. However, it is pivotal to assess not only the capital but regional movements that are scarcely covered by foreign historiography. This article analyzes São Paulo mental hygiene movement between 1926 and 1959, emphasizing negative eugenics, race, and childhood through international lenses.