UNFOLDING EVENTS

The timeline of the key events leading up to the January 9 invasion of Brazil’s Supreme Court, Congress and presidential palace by supporters of far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro, who disputed the election of leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

2022 October 30

— Lula, who was president from 2003 to 2011, narrowly beats Bolsonaro in a run-off vote. Bolsonaro supporters begin gathering for the first time outside military bases across Brazil, calling for a military intervention to prevent Lula from returning to office.

October 30 and 31

— Truckers who support Bolsonaro block roads throughout the country after his defeat.

November 2

— Bolsonaro supporters hold rallies across the country, asking for an armed force intervention. November 22 — Bolsonaro challenges the results of the Brazilian election, arguing votes from some machines should be “invalidated” in a complaint that election authorities rebuffed.

December 12

— Lula’s election victory is certified by the federal electoral court. Later that day, after the arrest of a proBolsonaro indigenous leader for alleged antidemocratic acts, Bolsonaro supporters try to invade the federal police headquarters in Brasilia, the capital.

December 24

— A man is arrested for attempting to set off a bomb in protest against Brazil’s poll results.

December 29

— At least four people are arrested by Brazilian police for an alleged coup attempt during riots by Bolsonaro supporters. December 30 — Bolsonaro lands in Florida less than two days before Lula is set to take office.

2023 January 1

— Lula is sworn in as president for the third time, saying that democracy was the true winner of the presidential election. January 9 — Bolsonaro supporters invade Brazil presidential palace, Congress and Supreme Court in Brasilia.