This is an analysis of the evolution of political actions and legal instruments imposed on indigenous peoples in Brazil since pre-colonization in the fifteenth century. Among the political ideologies that stand out are integrationism and protectionism. Integrationist ideology is seen as a beacon that lights the way and acts in the minds of Indians to constitute an ethnic nation state. However, a permanent recognition of indigenous rights is legitimated in the Federal Constitution of Brazil and in Resolution 169 of the International Labour Organization (recognized by Brazil).