Waldemar Rodrigues da Paixão, widely known as Mestre Waldemar, was born in 1916 on the Ilha de Maré, an island in the state of Bahia, Brazil. His introduction to Capoeira began in 1936 at the age of 20. Mestre Waldemar was a student of some of the most renowned Capoeiristas of his time, including Canário Pardo, Peripiri, Talabi, Siri-de-Mangue, and Ricardo of Ilha de Maré. In his own words, he sought these masters to learn the art, aspiring to become a professional and gain a deep understanding of Capoeira: “I asked those men to teach me, so that I could become professional. So that I could say that I knew, and now I know. I learned capoeira.”

By 1940, Mestre Waldemar began teaching Capoeira, having already developed considerable skill and earned the respect of his peers. His early rodas (Capoeira gatherings) were held in the Corta-Braço slum, later known as Liberdade, one of Salvador’s most impoverished neighborhoods. Initially, the rodas were conducted outdoors, but as the years went on, Waldemar constructed a straw shed to host them, and his roda became a crucial meeting point for Capoeiristas throughout Bahia.

Mestre Waldemar's approach to teaching Capoeira was grounded in the traditional methods of observation and imitation, as opposed to the systematized teaching that became more common later on. His roda was known not only for its high level of Capoeira but also for its unique atmosphere. Although Capoeiristas often arrived armed, they respected Waldemar’s authority and would leave their weapons with the bartender before entering his roda. He imposed no physical authority but instead earned respect through discipline and kindness. As he put it, "I always wanted to stay out of brawls, out of trouble. I hold this value even today. Everyone appreciates me, everyone likes me."

Mestre Waldemar was not only known for his mastery in the game of Capoeira but also for his exceptional singing ability. He was regarded as one of the greatest singers in the history of Bahian Capoeira. "I still have pride in my throat, for singing my ladainhas. Songs of Capoeira Angola. I didn’t find anyone who sang more than me. I still don’t," he once said. His music, particularly his ladainhas (traditional Capoeira songs), became a cornerstone of the Capoeira Angola tradition, celebrated by Capoeiristas around the world.

He was also known for his unique teaching style, which focused on guiding students through the experience of playing in the roda. Mestre Waldemar would signal his students with gestures to execute specific movements such as the tesoura (scissor), chibata (whip), or ducking. This hands-on teaching style, combined with the vibrant, interactive nature of the roda, allowed his students to learn through direct experience and play.

In addition to his work as a teacher and Capoeira practitioner, Mestre Waldemar was connected with several artists and scholars, including Mário Cravo, Carybé, and Pierre Verger, who frequented his Barracão (Capoeira training space). As a result, numerous sculptures, illustrations, and photographs documenting the history of his Capoeira practice have been preserved, contributing significantly to the historical and cultural legacy of Capoeira.

Despite his immense talent, Mestre Waldemar remained a humble and discreet figure in the Capoeira community. He never sought fame or recognition and chose not to engage with the commercialized aspects of Capoeira that were emerging at the time. His focus remained on preserving the integrity and tradition of Capoeira, especially in the face of increasing commercialization.

In his later years, Mestre Waldemar suffered from Parkinson’s disease. Despite this, he remained active in Capoeira, recording a famous album with his close friend, Mestre Canjiquinha, in 1984. Mestre Waldemar passed away in 1990, but his legacy as one of the most influential figures in Capoeira history endures. His contributions to the art of Capoeira, his dedication to teaching, and his humility continue to inspire Capoeiristas worldwide.