Pedro IV

emperor of Brazil

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June 17, 2026

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Pedro IV was the founder of the Brazilian empire and its first emperor, reigning from 1822 to 1831. He was also King Pedro IV of Portugal. Born in Lisbon, he accompanied the Portuguese royal family to Brazil when Napoleon invaded Portugal. He remained in Brazil as regent and declared Brazilian independence in 1822, subsequently being crowned emperor.1

His popularity declined due to his autocratic tendencies and involvement in Portuguese affairs. A war with Argentina over Uruguay also weakened his standing. Facing significant opposition and local uprisings, Pedro I abdicated in 1831 in favor of his young son, Pedro II, and returned to Portugal. He died in Portugal while securing his daughter's claim to the Portuguese throne.1

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João Carlos de Saldanha, duke de Saldanha
After the accession of Pedro IV in 1826, Saldanha was responsible for the proclamation in Portugal of Pedro’s constitutional charter. He was created Count de Saldanha in 1827, but he emigrated to London in October of that year, when Pedro’s brother, Dom Miguel, became regent. After the regent was…
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After the accession of Pedro IV in 1826, Saldanha was responsible for the proclamation in Portugal of Pedro’s constitutional charter. He was created Count de Saldanha in 1827, but he emigrated to London in October of that year, when Pedro’s brother, Dom Miguel, became regent. After the regent was…
Read More