The gap between the poor and the elites is well documented. Unequal income distribution continues to be a problem in Brazil (CIA World Factbook - Brazil 2009). In fact the gap between rich and poor in Brazil as measured by the Gini Index is one of the widest in the world. Based on 2005 CIA estimates, Brazil’s index is 56.7 and only is surpassed by a handful of countries with long histories of income discrimination and differentials such as Zimbabwe and South Africa (Wikipedia: List of countries by income equality 2009). Landless peasants are common as much of the country’s farmland is controlled by a handful of wealthy families. In addition, a third of the population in major cities such as Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro reside in favelas (slums) (BBC Country profile: Brazil 2009). Crime is a serious problem in Brazil’s urban and rural areas. Theft, kidnapping, quicknapping (holding a victim for a small immediate payoff), carjacking, and violence are commonplace. In fact, Brazil’s murder rate is four times that of the U.S. (U.S. Department of State Travel.State.Gov Brazil 2009).