The Reception of Pedro IV in Portugal After Brazil's Independence
The reception of Pedro IV in Portugal after the independence of Brazil was a complex and politically charged event. This period in Portuguese history is marked by significant internal struggles, the rise of liberal movements, and the lasting consequences of Brazil's separation from the Portuguese crown. Let us delve into the details of this historical event.
The Historical Context
In the early 19th century, Portugal was ruled by King John VI, who had two sons, Pedro I and Miguel. The following is an overview of the events leading up to the independence of Brazil and the subsequent upheaval in Portuguese royal politics.
Portugal's Shift Toward Liberalism
Since 1820, Portugal had experienced significant political changes, with a liberal elite gradually taking control. This new political landscape was reflected in the population’s attitude toward the crown. Pedro I, who is often referred to as Pedro IV after his return to Portugal, was seen as impulsive and indifferent to the liberal causes. On the other hand, his brother Miguel was autocratic and favored the old regime factions.
Reaction to Brazil's Independence
The declaration of Brazil's independence in 1822 created a profound crisis for the Portuguese monarchy. Dom Joo VI, the rightful King of Portugal, abdicated in favor of Pedro I in 1823, leaving the throne in his hands. This decision was met with significant resistance from the Portuguese nobility who preferred Miguel I.
The conflict between Pedro I and Miguel I reached its peak when Pedro led the Portuguese army in a war against Brazil from 1823 to 1825, known as the Punitive Expedition. The outcome of this conflict was insufficient to resolve the long-term issues. In 1826, Dom Joo VI died, leaving no clear path for governing Portugal.
Marias Regency
In 1826, Pedro I officially became Pedro IV and was crowned Emperor of Brazil. His son, Pedro II, was left to govern Brazil in his absence. At this time, Maria Leopoldina, the daughter of Pedro IV, was a minor. To prevent further conflict, Pedro IV married his brother's daughter, Maria II, and appointed his brother Miguel as her regent.
War of the Two Crowns
The willingness to accept Miguel's regency was short-lived. In 1828, Miguel convened the Portuguese Cortes (assembly), where it was decided that neither Pedro IV nor his daughter Maria had the right to rule the country. The Portuguese Cortes deemed that the rightful heir was Miguel, who was then proclaimed Miguel I.
Upon learning of this decision, Pedro IV returned to Portugal to challenge Miguel I's rule. This led to the War of the Two Crowns, which lasted from 1828 to 1831. Ultimately, Pedro IV emerged victorious, and Miguel I was forced into exile.
Mary's Ascendancy
Despite Pedro's victory, his health began to decline, and in 1828, he abdicated in favor of his now adult daughter, Maria II. Maria II was crowned Queen of Portugal in 1833, effectively ending the conflict. Pedro IV passed away on September 24, 1834, and was buried in the Pantheon of the House of Braganza at the Monastery of S?o Vicente de Fora in Lisbon.
Conclusion
The reception of Pedro IV in Portugal after Brazil's independence was marked by political instability, internal conflicts, and the rise of liberal values. This period highlighted the challenges faced by the Portuguese crown in maintaining its authority and legitimacy in the face of independence movements and shifting political landscapes.