José Maria da Silva Paranhos Júnior (1845-1912)or just Barão do Rio Branco (Baron of the White River), was a Brazilian politician, lawyer, professor, historian and diplomat (Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 1902-1912).

He negotiated land disputes between Brazil and its neighbours and consolidated the borders of modern Brazil. He is considered to be one of the most proeminent Brazilians due to the fact that his work and ability were essential for the incorporation of enormous land masses to the Brazilian territory. It was even given the name Rio Branco to a state capital in his honor.