Did you know that Cubango in Niterói carries a hidden meaning in its name? Its story is deeply intertwined with the history of this region.
Cubango’s origins can be traced back to the indigenous people. They called this land “u-bang-u” meaning “hidden lands”. This name reflects the area’s somewhat secluded nature. The “c” was added during the adaptation to Portuguese. So Cubango means “dark barrier” or “black ante-wall”.
Later, with Portuguese colonization, Cubango transformed. It became a point for trading enslaved people. This area was known as “Venda das Mulatas”. It bordered Viçoso Jardim. It is believed that the enslaved people came from Angola. They adapted the indigenous name “u-bang-u”. They named it after a river in their homeland. That river was called Cubango.
Now, let’s talk about Acadêmicos do Cubango. This is a well-known samba school in Niterói. It was founded on December 17, 1959. The school’s colors are green and white. Acadêmicos do Cubango is more than just a samba school. It’s a symbol of community spirit. It embodies the heart and soul of the people.
Cubango quickly rose to prominence. It became one of the most popular schools in Niterói. It has won fifteen Niterói championship titles. Five of those titles were won consecutively. This is a testament to its dedication and talent.
In 1986, Acadêmicos do Cubango crossed Guanabara Bay. It sought to perform in Rio de Janeiro. The samba school was evaluated and approved by Rio’s samba schools. It debuted in the capital alongside Viradouro. However, it did not compete that year. The following year, it achieved second place in Group 4.
Acadêmicos do Cubango is known as a popular school. It relies on its community’s dedication. It overcomes common difficulties faced by samba schools. Without “godfathers” support, challenges are always present. The school has a legion of devoted fans. They assist it. They strive to parade in the Special Group.
In 2008, Cubango fell to Group B. But it won the Third Group carnival in 2009. It shared the title with Unidos de Padre Miguel. In 2018, the “Resgata Cubango” movement debuted. The promising carnival artists Gabriel Haddad and Leonardo Bora contributed to the good parade. They classified fifth in Série A.
The school aims for its first promotion to the Special Group. In 2019, it became runner-up. It presented the theme “Igbá Cubango – A Alma das Coisas e a Arte dos Milagres”. Cubango remains a Série A powerhouse. It continues to dream of reaching the elite of the Carioca Carnival. Acadêmicos do Cubango represents the voice of the people. As its motto says: “Cubango is not the biggest nor the best. Cubango belongs to the people.”