This article analyses the emergence of intercultural education in the Brazilian educational system. After summarizing the debate on international convergence in intercultural education, it traces the development of interethnic relations in Brazil, describing the heavy legacy of slavery and colonization. It then investigates recently adopted legislation that encourages the inclusion of cultural diversity in education. Finally, it explores intercultural approaches in the training and work of teachers. The Brazilian example is interesting because it reflects both an ongoing conservatism that resists the teaching of intercultural material in schools and a profound debate about cultural identities and the need for education to take into account all of the nation's historical inequalities.