The History of Brazil commences in the coast of Bahia, where the first Portuguese arrived.Salvador was founded in 1534, and became the first capital of Brazil. During the cycles of sugar cane and gold, the government was centralized in Salvador.In the 17th century, the French and Dutch tried to take Salvador, like they did in other less protected spots, but they failed.Bahia is one of the states where the black influence was more profound; until today, the "blackness" of the culture is used to attract visitors. Music, dance, religion, culinary, among others, are fields were the black influence is still strong.After the economic centers to the south, Bahia lost some importance, but still is an important state. The state has vaste areas of soil good for agriculture and cattle. The first big reservoirs of Brazilian petroleum were found in Bahia; decades later, a large petrochemical complex was built near Salvador. In recent years, an agressive politics to attract investments has resulted in new factories (the most modern Ford plant in the world was built in Bahia).