Edson Arantes do Nascimento
- Born:
- October 23, 1940, Três Corações, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Died:
- December 29, 2022, São Paulo, Brazil
- Nationality:
- Brazilian
- Profession(s):
- Professional Footballer
Early Life and Education
- Born into poverty, his father was a former footballer.
- He learned to play football on the streets of Bauru, São Paulo.
- Early nicknames included "Dico" and later "Pelé."
Career and Major Achievements
- Began playing professionally for Santos FC at age 15 in 1956.
- Won six Campeonato Brasileiro Série A titles (1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1968) with Santos.
- Won two Copa Libertadores titles (1962, 1963) with Santos.
- Won two Intercontinental Cups (1962, 1963) with Santos.
- Member of the Brazilian national team that won the FIFA World Cup in 1958, 1962, and 1970.
- Scored over 1,000 career goals, although the exact number is debated.
- Played for the New York Cosmos from 1975 to 1977, helping to popularize soccer in the United States.
Notable Works
| Year | Work | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1977 | Pelé | Autobiography |
| 1981 | Escape to Victory | Film (Actor) |
| 1977 | Pelé | Soundtrack |
Legacy and Impact
Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known worldwide as Pelé, is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. His skill, athleticism, and charismatic personality transcended the sport, making him a global icon. Any serious study of an "ardido pele biography" will recognize his profound impact on football and popular culture.