In the United States, it initially developed for African-American culture[1] and was a direct response to white racism, especially during the civil rights movement.
[2] Stemming from the idea of black power, this movement emphasizes racial pride, economic empowerment, and the creation of political and cultural institutions.
Although it borrows some ingredients from hip hop, its style still remains unique to Brazil (mainly Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo).
[12] Dreadlocks became prominent and, according to Jesuit priest Joseph Owens, represented "refusal to depart from the ancient, natural way".
However, American author and activist Alice Walker claims conservatives saw the movement's style as "not just disgusting, but down-right frightening".