23. In 1922, the citizens of Rio de Janeiro petitioned their national president, Epitácio Pessoa, for permission to build the statue that came to be known as the Cristo Redento or Christ the Redeemer. Who launched the petition drive?
From Quiz Cristo Redentor: Arms Wide Open
Answer:
The Catholic Circle
When Brazil adopted a new constitution in 1891, the separation of church and state entered into force. Until that time, Catholicism had been the official religion and, consequently, the Catholic Church had been subsidized by the State. At the start of the 20th century, the Church was looking for ways to strengthen its base. A small group called the Círculo Católico or the "Catholic Circle" came together to find ways to raise the Church's profile. One of its members came up with the idea of moving forward with idea proposed originally by Pedro Maria Boss in 1859. Efforts were begun to get public support for the idea, which led to a petition drive. There was immediately a lot of support for the project, especially from women. It is estimated that one woman, Laurita Lacerda, was alone responsible for obtaining over 20,000 signatures. Some sources estimate that over 100,000 signatures were eventually submitted. Because of the high level of support, building permission was granted.