1. Introduction: Who Was Orlando Gomes? Orlando Gomes (1909–1988) is one of the most celebrated names in Brazilian private law. A professor at the Federal University of Bahia (UFBA) and later at the University of São Paulo (USP), his didactic yet rigorous style has shaped generations of law students. His works, especially the Introdução ao Direito Civil , are considered essential reading for anyone beginning their legal studies in Brazil.