José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva (June 13, 1763 – April 6, 1838), was a Brazilian diplomat, naturalist, professor and poet, born in Santos, São Paulo, at this time part of the Portuguese Empire.

He is one of the most important mentors of Brazilian independence, and his actions are decisive for the success of Emperor Pedro I.

He supports public education, is an abolitionist, and suggesta that a new national capital be created in Brazil's underdeveloped interior (effected over a century later as Brasília).

His career as naturalist is marked by the discovery of four new minerals.