Folha de S. Paulo

Founded on February 19, 1921, as Folha da Noite, this São Paulo-based newspaper evolved into the flagship publication of Grupo Folha and one of Latin America's most respected news outlets. Octávio Guedes de Almeida established the paper to provide a modern, independent voice in Brazilian media, quickly transitioning from an evening edition to a morning broadsheet that would define public discourse for over a century.

The organization operates with a strict commitment to factual rigor and editorial independence, often taking critical stances toward government actions and defending press freedom against authoritarian pressures. Former editor Sérgio Dávila famously described their approach as "journalism for people with heart problems," emphasizing the need to report difficult truths without flinching even when facing political turbulence or social controversy.

Beyond print, Grupo Folha manages a diverse ecosystem including the UOL internet portal, the Datafolha polling institute, and Publifolha publishing house. This structure allows Folha de S. Paulo to reach millions of Brazilians through digital subscriptions, mobile platforms, and real-time updates while maintaining its traditional journalistic standards. Recent coverage includes major national events such as the 2026 presidential election runoff projections and Supreme Court rulings on fake news. [edit]

To deliver independent, rigorous journalism that upholds democratic values and informs the Brazilian public with accuracy and integrity. The organization prioritizes investigative reporting and fact-checking to hold power accountable while navigating complex political landscapes without compromising editorial freedom. [edit]

The newspaper began operations under the name Folha da Noite before rebranding to Folha de S.Paulo shortly after its founding. It transformed from a modest evening publication into a morning broadsheet that became central to Brazilian public life. Over the decades, it played pivotal roles in the country's redemocratization during the 1980s and covered high-profile impeachment processes involving presidents Fernando Collor and Dilma Rousseff.

The organization expanded significantly in the late 20th century by launching UOL, which brought its content to the digital age. This move allowed Folha to maintain relevance as readers shifted from print to online platforms. In recent years, the newspaper has faced challenges related to misinformation and political polarization, yet it continues to serve as a trusted source for scholars, policymakers, and the general public. [edit]