Hydrological heritage: A historical exploration of human–water dynamics in northeast Brazil

Severe droughts have historically plagued Brazil’s semi-arid region, leading to mass migrations and significant loss of life. Although these events have sparked a unique coevolutionary relationship between humans and water systems in this region, this historical narrative remains largely unexplored from a hydrological point of view. This study delves into the multifaceted history of droughts and the development of water infrastructure in the region by compiling and analyzing historical records, official documents, drought literature novels, and newspaper reports. Thus, this study points that societal perception and regional memory emerge as feasible pathways of hydrological heritage toward community resilience to droughts. Through this regional analyse, valuable insights are provided for understanding human-water system interactions and offering potential lessons for other regions grappling with similar challenges.