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Biography Of Dom Pedro First Emperor Of Brazil

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Published in Every Inch A King: A Biography Of Dom Pedro I First Emperor Of Brazil

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Dom Pedro I was the first emperor of Brazil, reigning from 1822 to 1831. He was a key figure in the Brazilian independence movement and is considered one of the most important figures in Brazilian history.

Every Inch a King: A Biography of Dom Pedro I, First Emperor of Brazil

by Kristin Hannah

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1308 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	248 pages

Early Life

Pedro de Alcântara Francisco Antônio João Carlos Xavier de Paula Miguel Rafael Joaquim José Gonzaga Pascoal Cipriano Serafim de Bragança e Bourbon was born on October 12, 1798, in Queluz, Portugal. He was the son of King João VI of Portugal and Carlota Joaquina of Spain. Pedro was a member of the House of Braganza, one of the oldest and most powerful dynasties in Europe.

Pedro received a privileged education. He studied mathematics, science, history, and literature. He also learned to speak several languages, including Portuguese, Spanish, French, and English. Pedro was a gifted student and excelled in his studies.

Arrival in Brazil

In 1808, the Portuguese royal family fled to Brazil to escape the invading French army. Pedro and his family arrived in Rio de Janeiro in March 1808. Pedro was immediately impressed by Brazil and its people. He quickly learned to speak Portuguese and adopted many Brazilian customs.

Pedro spent the next several years in Brazil, helping his father to govern the colony. He also traveled extensively throughout the country, learning about its people and its resources. Pedro became increasingly convinced that Brazil should be independent from Portugal.

The Independence of Brazil

In 1821, the Portuguese parliament ordered King João VI to return to Portugal. Pedro refused to obey the order and declared Brazil's independence on September 7, 1822. He was crowned emperor of Brazil on December 1, 1822.

Pedro's reign was marked by a number of important events. He established a constitutional monarchy, created a national bank, and promoted economic development. He also fought to suppress revolts by pro-Portuguese forces.

Abdication

In 1831, Pedro abdicated the throne in favor of his son, Pedro II. He returned to Portugal and lived there until his death in 1834.

Legacy

Dom Pedro I is considered one of the most important figures in Brazilian history. He is known as the "Father of the Nation" and is credited with leading Brazil to independence. Pedro's legacy is still felt today, and he is considered a national hero by many Brazilians.

Here are some of the most important accomplishments of Dom Pedro I:

Declared Brazil's independence from Portugal
Established a constitutional monarchy
Created a national bank
Promoted economic development
Suppressed revolts by pro-Portuguese forces

Dom Pedro I was a complex and controversial figure. He was a brilliant military leader and a skilled politician. However, he was also known for his hot temper and his authoritarian tendencies. Despite his flaws, Pedro I is considered one of the most important figures in Brazilian history and is still revered by many Brazilians today.