The term refers to the results of a specific, illegal lottery-style game played in the Brazilian state of Bahia. This game involves placing bets on a selection of animals, each associated with a set of numbers. The winning animal and its corresponding numbers are determined by a drawing. For instance, if the chosen animal is the deer (veado in Portuguese), and the drawn numbers fall within its designated range, bets placed on the deer are considered winning bets.
Despite its illegality, this game holds significant cultural and historical weight in Brazil, particularly among lower socioeconomic groups. It provides a form of entertainment and, for some, a perceived opportunity for financial gain. This popularity persists even with the risks involved, highlighting its ingrained presence in certain communities. The game’s historical roots trace back to the late 19th century in Rio de Janeiro, eventually spreading throughout the country and adapting to regional contexts. Its enduring appeal underscores the complex relationship between informal gambling, social practices, and economic realities in Brazil.
