How did Spiritism become popular in Brazil?

Spiritism, a distinct offshoot of Spiritualism codified by the French educator Allan Kardec, flourished in Brazil despite an official ban on its practice in 1890.1

Initially, the movement entered the country as a fashionable habit among the urban elite before becoming widely dispersed and centered within the white middle class. Its growth was significantly bolstered in the 20th century by the famed medium Francisco (Chico) de Paula Cândido Xavier, whose prolific writings and public presence helped solidify the doctrine's influence. Xavier’s work, including his alleged telepathic communications, gained such cultural prominence that his letters were even accepted as evidence in Brazilian courts.1

The movement's popularity is further supported by a robust infrastructure of Spiritist centers, specialized media—such as the International Magazine of Spiritism—and its integration into popular culture, including telenovelas and films. Today, Spiritism is the third most popular religion in Brazil, with millions of followers.231