Joaquim José da Silva Xavier, known as Tiradentes (August 16, 1746–-April 21, 1792), is a leading member of the Brazilian revolutionary movement known as the Inconfidência Mineira, whose aim is full independence from the Portuguese colonial power and to create a Brazilian republic.

When the plan is discovered, Tiradentes is arrested, tried and publicly hanged.

Since the 19th century, he has been considered a national hero of Brazil and patron of the Polícia Militar de Minas Gerais (Minas Gerais Military Police).