The navigation on the São Francisco River and the territorial formation of Petrolina (PE) and Juazeiro (BA)

Abstract

Having over four hundred years of history in the formation of Brazilian territory, the São Francisco River played a crucial role in the colonization and occupation of the Brazilian semiarid region. The navigation contributed to the strengthening of an internal market in this area and facilitated the transportation of produce from the interior to seaports. Thus, this research aims to develop a timeline of the navigation process on the São Francisco River, focusing on the territorial formation of Juazeiro (BA) and Petrolina (PE). To construct this timeline, secondary sources and iconography were researched, mainly in its lower middle stretch. In the beginning, navigation was carried out by ajoujos, boats for people, animals or goods. The introduction of steamboats on the river only occurred at the end of the 19th century. To make this type of movement viable, it was necessary to remove the rocks that appeared along the river. This navigation method was crucial to the territorial definition of Petrolina and Juazeiro. The Ilha do Fogo, located exactly in the center of the river and between the two banks of the cities, played a fundamental role in the crossing between the two sides. This study allowed us to understand the relevance of navigation in the territorial formation of these cities, boosting not only the national economy, but also contributing significantly to the rapid urbanization of both territories. Further research is needed to deepen our knowledge of the dynamics of land use over this period.