First Woman President of Brazil Inaugurated January 1, 2010

The first woman in history to be elected President of Brazil was sworn in January 1, 2011. Dilma Rousseff rode to her inauguration in Brasilia, the nation's inland capital, in a vintage 1952 Rolls Royce, waving to the crowds who withstood a torrential downpour at the time. Today her security detail was made up of an escort of six black clad women. Rousseff served as Chief of Staff for the very popular outgoing president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Silva leaves office with an 87% approval rating.

During Brazil's military dictatorship years of 1964-85 Rousseff was a member of an armed rebel contingency. She was arrested 41 years ago and was imprisoned and tortured for three years. In her address Rousseff referred to these times, and honored several of her female prison mates at the inaugural event.

The impact of that period of her life was evident in portions of her address today. With tears welling in her eyes, she stated "That at-times tough path made me value and love life much more. It gave me, more than anything else, courage to confront even bigger challenges. It is with this courage that I'm going to govern Brazil."

Rousseff faces many challenges following Silva. In his eight years as leader of the largest country in South America Silva was able to put together a coalition of the left wing socialists of his Workers Party and conservative business factions. His balance between social wealth redistribution programs and more conservative economic policies may prove difficult for Rousseff to maintain.

Rousseff will have to maintain the continued refurbishing of the nation's infrastructure. Brazil is hosting both the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympics. Airports, roads, seaports and security issues will be top priorities for the new administration as it prepares to showcase the country.

Brazil's economy has strengthened during Silva's presidency. Near insolvency in 2002, Brazil now has low unemployment, millions are no longer in poverty, and its currency has doubled against the US dollar. Exports have increased, led primarily by Chinese imports of Brazilian farming and industrial goods. China is now Brazil's largest trading partner, outpacing the U.S. for the first time last year.

Always known as a tough manager during her work with Silva, Rousseff has been known as the "Iron Lady". She and her new Vice President Michel Temer have a daunting task ahead of them. The "Iron Lady" will have to live up to her name.

Sources:
Fox News
CNN