This study aimed to analyze the context and the profile of the regional social and economic
development of the municipalities of Tocantins State, Brazil, from 2000 to 2010. The
Regional Development Index (RDI) method was used, on the basis of social and economic
variables. Institutional Theory was the support with the exponent of the North’s work on the
Exporting Base and the Institutional Environment. Results indicate that the regional
development in Tocantins did not occur homogeneously in time and space. The construction
of the BR-153 highway establishes links among surrounding cities, highlighting the cities that
are located along this highway. This meant expansion and occupation of new agricultural
frontiers, reproduction and expansion of financial capital; however, there were deep social
and economic imbalances in almost all municipalities, except for Palmas, Araguaína, and
Gurupi municipalities. From 2010, it was found sensitive improvement of Rural Development
Index (RDI), which is due mainly to social indicators, such as poverty rate fall, increased
spending on health, sanitation, and education. With regard to economic indicators, one of the
main factors was the creation of new job posts in services, trade, and public administration
areas; there was also increase in the municipal Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
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