The first queen regnant of Portugal, ruling from 1777 to 1816, known for her mental health issues and the relocation of the Portuguese court to Brazil during the Napoleonic Wars.
Maria I of Portugal, also known as Maria the Pious in Portugal and Maria the Mad in Brazil, was the first undisputed queen regnant of Portugal and the first monarch of Brazil, reigning from 1777 until her death in 1816. She was a complex figure, marked by devotion to her faith, her people, and her family, yet troubled by mental health issues and tumultuous relationships.
Maria was born on December 17, 1734, at the Ribeira Palace in Lisbon, to King Dom Jos I of Portugal and Queen Mariana Victoria. She was the eldest of four daughters and held the titles of Princess of Brazil and Duchess of Braganza. In 1760, she married her uncle, Infante Pedro, with whom she had six children, three of whom survived infancy.
Upon ascending to the throne in 1777, Maria dismissed her father's powerful chief minister, Sebastio Jos de Carvalho e Melo, 1st Marquis of Pombal, and set about reshaping Portugal's government and economy. During her reign, she oversaw the completion of the Palace of Queluz, the inauguration of the Palace of Ajuda, and the construction of other national buildings, contributing to Portugal's economic growth.
The death of her husband in 1786, followed by the deaths of her eldest son and confessor, led Maria to develop clinical depression. Her second son, Joo, took on the role of prince regent, and Maria's mental health issues continued to affect her reign. However, she persevered, eventually finding solace in her faith and her people.
In 1807, with Napoleon's European conquests threatening Portugal, Maria and her court moved to the Portuguese colony of Brazil. This move had a profound impact on the development of Brazil, and in 1815, Brazil was elevated to a kingdom, with Maria becoming Queen of the United Kingdom of Portugal, Brazil, and the Algarves.
Maria's reign was marked by a complex interplay of personal struggle and public achievement. While her mental health issues often affected her decision-making, she remained dedicated to her people and her faith. Her legacy can be seen in the many national buildings and institutions she established, as well as the growth of Portugal's economy during her reign.
"I am the Queen, and I will do what is best for my people."
Maria's reign was marked by the tumultuous context of European politics and the rise of Napoleon. Despite these challenges, she remained committed to her people and her faith, earning her the title of Maria the Pious in Portugal and Maria the Mad in Brazil. Her legacy continues to shape the history of Portugal and Brazil, and she remains one of the most fascinating and complex figures of the 18th century.
Born in 1825
The last emperor of Brazil, ruling from 1831 to 1889, known for modernizing and stabilizing the country, abolishing slavery, and promoting education and infrastructure development.
Born in 1802
King of Portugal who ruled from 1828 to 1834 and sparked a civil war by attempting to restore absolute monarchy, leading to his eventual exile.
Born in 1320
King of Portugal who ruled from 1357 to 1367 and is remembered for his brutal suppression of the nobility and his role in the Portuguese succession crisis. He's also known for his tumultuous personal life, including the murder of his mistress's lover.
Born in 1838
King of Portugal from 1861 to 1889, known for modernizing the country and promoting economic growth. He was a popular monarch who reigned for nearly three decades.
Born in 1469
King of Portugal from 1495 to 1521, known for sponsoring Vasco da Gama's voyage to India, establishing trade routes, and promoting the Portuguese Renaissance.
Born in 1432
King of Portugal who ruled from 1438 to 1481, known for his military conquests in North Africa and the expansion of Portuguese trade and exploration.
