Rio de Janeiro is the second largest city in Brazil with 1.7 million residents, 23% of whom live in favelas (rudimentary improvised cities). Favelas were started in 1888 by slaves who were recently freed and denied most rights. These communities were created outside of government control, making them different from other areas. Anyone can find a place to live in favelas, regardless of their situation. Many people migrate to favelas from rural areas due to difficulty in rural life, including water fluctuation, drought, high land and housing prices, and lack of necessities. People see favelas as a better housing option due to their proximity to the city and its resources in combination with looser regulations found in the favelas. For many Brazilians looking for a more affordable life, the migration from rural to urban favelas has been the solution.