"The Roots of State Intervention in the Brazilian Economy" provides a historical review focusing on the period between 1964's military takeover to today's economic crisis which developed in the late '70s-early '80s. The book traces four centuries of economic and social change in Brazil, then reviews the crucial period between 1930 and 1964 in terms of Brazil's economic development. The author also examines the contemporary economic policies implemented by the military regime that emerged from the overthrow of the Goulart government.