14.3 Dom Pedro I and the declaration of independence
3 min read•august 7, 2024
's decision to stay in Brazil marked a turning point in the colony's relationship with Portugal. This "" (Day of Staying) defied Portuguese orders and aligned Dom Pedro with Brazilian interests, setting the stage for independence.
, a key advisor to Dom Pedro, played a crucial role in shaping Brazil's path to independence. His influence guided Dom Pedro's actions and provided intellectual support for the movement, advocating for a gradual and peaceful transition while maintaining Brazil's territorial integrity.
Dia do Fico and José Bonifácio
Dom Pedro's Decision to Stay in Brazil
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On January 9, 1822, Dom Pedro declared he would stay in Brazil, defying orders from the Portuguese court to return, an event known as the "Dia do Fico" (Day of Staying)
Responded to a petition from the people of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo to remain in Brazil
Decision marked a crucial step towards Brazilian independence from Portugal
Dom Pedro's decision reflected growing tensions between Brazil and Portugal
Many Brazilians desired greater autonomy and resented Portuguese control
Portuguese Cortes (parliament) aimed to reassert control over Brazil and limit its political power
The Dia do Fico demonstrated Dom Pedro's alignment with Brazilian interests and his willingness to challenge Portuguese authority
José Bonifácio's Role as a Key Advisor
José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva emerged as a key advisor to Dom Pedro during the independence movement
Bonifácio was a prominent Brazilian statesman, scientist, and poet
Served as Dom Pedro's minister of the interior and foreign affairs
Bonifácio played a crucial role in shaping Brazil's path to independence
Advocated for a gradual and peaceful transition to independence
Sought to maintain Brazil's territorial integrity and prevent fragmentation
Drafted important political documents, such as the
Manifesto justified Brazil's independence to the international community
Emphasized Brazil's desire for self-governance and its grievances against Portugal
Bonifácio's influence helped guide Dom Pedro's actions and provided intellectual support for the independence movement
Grito de Ipiranga and Independence
The Grito de Ipiranga and Declaration of Independence
On September 7, 1822, Dom Pedro declared Brazil's independence from Portugal in an event known as the "" (Cry of Ipiranga)
Occurred on the banks of the Ipiranga River near São Paulo
According to legend, Dom Pedro exclaimed "!" (Independence or Death!)
The Grito de Ipiranga marked the formal declaration of Brazil's independence
Culminated months of growing tensions and political maneuvering
Reflected Dom Pedro's commitment to leading an independent Brazil
Independence was officially proclaimed on September 12, 1822, in Rio de Janeiro
Dom Pedro was acclaimed as the first Emperor of Brazil
Coronation ceremony took place on December 1, 1822
Establishment of the Empire of Brazil
Following the declaration of independence, Brazil transitioned from a colony to an independent empire
Dom Pedro I became the first Emperor of Brazil, establishing a
The lasted from 1822 until the proclamation of the republic in 1889
The Brazilian Empire faced challenges in its early years
Needed to consolidate its authority and gain international recognition
Faced regional revolts and political instability (, )
Dom Pedro I abdicated the throne in 1831 in favor of his young son,
Dom Pedro II's long reign (1831-1889) brought stability and progress to Brazil
Empire saw advancements in education, infrastructure, and the arts
The Empire of Brazil represented a unique path to independence in Latin America
Maintained a monarchical system while most former colonies became republics
Allowed for a more gradual transition and continuity of political institutions
Key Terms to Review (16)
Cisplatine War: The Cisplatine War was a conflict between the United Provinces of the Rio de la Plata and Brazil from 1825 to 1828, primarily over the control of the territory of present-day Uruguay. The war was marked by significant military engagement and was rooted in broader regional struggles for independence and territorial integrity following the dissolution of colonial rule in South America.
Colonialism: Colonialism is a practice where a powerful nation establishes control over a foreign territory, often displacing or subjugating the indigenous population while exploiting the resources and labor of that land. This system creates complex dynamics of power, resistance, and social hierarchies, affecting both the colonizers and the colonized. The impact of colonialism is evident in various forms of resistance, the emergence of independent movements, and the persistent inequalities that arise in post-colonial societies.
Confederation of the Equator: The Confederation of the Equator was a short-lived separatist movement in Brazil that emerged in 1824, primarily in the northern province of Pará. It aimed to establish a federalist government in opposition to the centralized authority of Dom Pedro I, following Brazil's independence from Portugal. This movement is significant as it highlights the regional tensions and struggles for power in post-independence Brazil, showcasing the challenges faced by Dom Pedro I during his reign.
Constitutional monarchy: A constitutional monarchy is a form of government where a monarch acts as the head of state within the parameters set by a constitution, whether written or unwritten. This system allows for a separation of powers, where the monarch's powers are limited by law and an elected parliament or assembly has significant authority. In this context, constitutional monarchy plays a crucial role in shaping the political landscape and influencing independence movements.
Declaration of Independence of Brazil: The Declaration of Independence of Brazil, issued on September 7, 1822, marked the formal separation of Brazil from Portuguese colonial rule. This event was significant as it signified Brazil's emergence as an independent nation and was primarily driven by Dom Pedro I, who declared independence in a famous cry known as 'Independência ou Morte!' This declaration set the stage for the establishment of the Empire of Brazil and altered the political landscape in South America.
Dia do fico: Dia do Fico, which translates to 'Day of Staying,' refers to the pivotal moment on April 9, 1822, when Dom Pedro I, the Prince Regent of Brazil, declared his intention to remain in Brazil rather than return to Portugal. This event marked a crucial turning point in Brazil's path toward independence, as it symbolized the rejection of Portuguese authority and set the stage for Brazil's eventual declaration of independence.
Dom Pedro I: Dom Pedro I was the first Emperor of Brazil, who played a crucial role in the country's declaration of independence from Portugal in 1822. His leadership during this pivotal moment not only established Brazil as a sovereign nation but also marked the beginning of a constitutional monarchy that would shape the political landscape of Brazil for decades to come.
Dom Pedro II: Dom Pedro II was the last emperor of Brazil, ruling from 1831 to 1889. He is known for his efforts to modernize Brazil and promote education, agriculture, and industry, which helped stabilize the nation during his reign. His rule witnessed significant events such as the abolition of slavery and the transition of Brazil from a monarchy to a republic.
Empire of Brazil: The Empire of Brazil was a constitutional monarchy that existed from 1822 to 1889, emerging after Brazil's independence from Portugal. It was characterized by a complex political landscape, marked by the leadership of Dom Pedro I and later his son, Dom Pedro II, who played pivotal roles in shaping Brazil's national identity and governance during a time of significant social and economic transformation.
Grito de ipiranga: The grito de ipiranga, or the 'Cry of Ipiranga,' refers to the declaration of Brazil's independence from Portuguese rule made by Dom Pedro I on September 7, 1822. This pivotal moment marked Brazil's shift from a colony to an independent nation and was characterized by Dom Pedro's iconic statement, 'Independência ou Morte!' which means 'Independence or Death!'. This event not only signaled the end of colonial control but also set the stage for Brazil's future as a sovereign nation.
Independência ou morte: Independência ou morte, which translates to 'independence or death', was a powerful phrase associated with the declaration of Brazil's independence from Portuguese colonial rule. This declaration, proclaimed by Dom Pedro I on September 7, 1822, marked a pivotal moment in Brazil's history as it signified the end of colonial governance and the birth of a sovereign nation. The phrase encapsulated the urgent desire for self-governance and the willingness to fight for freedom against foreign oppression.
José Bonifácio: José Bonifácio was a prominent Brazilian statesman, scholar, and political leader, often referred to as the 'Patriarch of Independence' in Brazil. He played a crucial role in the movement for Brazil's independence from Portugal in the early 19th century, advising Dom Pedro I and advocating for a gradual process of emancipation for slaves and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy.
Liberalism: Liberalism is a political and economic ideology that emphasizes individual freedoms, equality, and the protection of civil liberties, advocating for limited government intervention in personal and economic matters. This ideology played a significant role in shaping political thought and revolutions throughout Latin America, influencing leaders and movements seeking independence from colonial rule, as well as fostering economic changes aimed at promoting free markets and democracy.
Manifesto to Friendly Nations: The Manifesto to Friendly Nations was a significant document issued by Dom Pedro I of Brazil, proclaiming the country's independence from Portugal in 1822. It aimed to inform and garner support from foreign nations, declaring Brazil's intentions to establish itself as a sovereign and independent state, while emphasizing the principles of liberty and self-governance.
Nationalism: Nationalism is a political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a particular nation, often prioritizing national identity and self-governance over external influences. It can foster unity among people within a nation but may also lead to conflicts with other nations, especially during periods of political change and upheaval. In the context of exploration, independence movements, cultural influences, and political instability, nationalism plays a crucial role in shaping the identity and aspirations of various groups.
Sovereignty: Sovereignty refers to the supreme authority within a territory, allowing a state to govern itself without interference from external forces. It encompasses the idea of self-rule and independence, which became particularly relevant during moments of political transition and nation-building, like when Brazil declared independence from Portugal in 1822. This concept was crucial for legitimizing the establishment of new governments and territorial claims in a post-colonial context.