Dom Pedro II, the second and last monarch of the Empire of Brazil, ruled the state for over five decades. Despite ascending the throne at the young age of five, his unique upbringing and dedication shaped him into an emperor committed to his kingdom and its people. Under his rule, Brazil emerged as a global power, winning several wars and experiencing significant economic, political, and social development. Dom Pedro II also prioritized education, culture, and the sciences, and played a crucial role in abolishing slavery. Despite his respected and popular status, he was dethroned in a sudden coup d’état, leading to the proclamation of a republic in 1889. Dom Pedro II chose not to oppose his ouster or restore the monarchy, instead living in exile in Europe until his death. He is widely regarded as the greatest Brazilian by many historians.
Quick Facts
- Also Known As: Dom Pedro II
- Died At Age: 66
- Spouse/Ex-: Teresa Cristina of the Two Sicilies (m. 1843 – died. 1889)
- Father: Pedro I of Brazil
- Mother: Maria Leopoldina of Austria
- Children: Afonso, Isabel, Pedro Afonso, Prince Imperial of Brazil, Princess Imperial of Brazil, Princess Leopoldina of Brazil
- Born Country: Brazil
- Died on: December 5, 1891
- Place of Death: Paris, France
- Ancestry: Portuguese Brazilian, Austrian Brazilian
Childhood & Early Life
Pedro de Alcântara João Carlos Leopoldo Salvador Bibiano Francisco Xavier de Paula Leocádio Miguel Gabriel Rafael Gonzaga (Pedro II) was born on December 2, 1825, in the ‘Palace of São Cristóvão’ in Rio de Janeiro, Empire of Brazil. He was the son of Emperor Dom Pedro I and Empress Dona Maria Leopoldina. His paternal grandfather was John VI, the king of the United Kingdom of Portugal, Brazil, and the Algarves, and his maternal grandfather was Franz II, the last Holy Roman Emperor. Pedro II was also a nephew of Napoleon Bonaparte through his mother. He used the honorific “Dom” (Lord) since birth.
Monarchy
Pedro I abdicated the throne as the Emperor of Brazil in favor of Pedro II on April 7, 1831, and sailed for Europe. Pedro II was an intelligent child and dedicated himself to studying. He prepared himself to become a capable monarch and spent most of his time with books. He grew up to be a shy person with an isolated life due to the absence of his parents and limited contact with his sisters and friends.
In 1840, at the age of 14, Pedro II assumed full powers and was declared of age by the parliament of Brazil. He was crowned as the emperor on July 18, 1841. Pedro II gradually gained strength of character and became a confident and diligent monarch. He exercised full authority without any influence from the ‘Courtier Faction,’ a group of high-ranking palace servants and politicians.
During his reign, Pedro II faced challenges such as suppressing the Praieira revolt and tackling the issue of illegally imported slaves. He supported the gradual eradication and abolition of slavery, which led to the passage of the ‘Law of Free Birth’ in 1871. Pedro II also led Brazil to victory in the Platine War and the Paraguayan War, establishing Brazil as a hemispheric power.
Promotion of Arts, Sciences, and Culture
Pedro II promoted arts, sciences, and culture during his reign. Several institutes of repute were built, including the Brazilian Historic and Geographic Institute, the Pedro II School, and the Imperial Academy of Music and National Opera. His works earned him respect and admiration from notable personalities such as Charles Darwin, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and Victor Hugo.
Decline of Power, Coup d’État & Exile
The civilian republicans started pushing for the removal of the monarchy from power, leading to a coup d’état on November 15, 1889. Pedro II did not oppose his ouster and was sent to exile in Europe along with his family. Brazil faced constitutional and economic crises, dictatorships, and weak governments after his removal from power.
Family, Personal Life & Legacy
Pedro II married Princess Teresa Cristina of the Two Sicilies in 1843. They had four children together. During his exile in Europe, Pedro II lived a lonely and melancholic life in modest hotels. He passed away on December 5, 1891, in Paris, France. His body was buried in the ‘Royal Pantheon of the House of Braganza’ in Portugal. In 1921, his remains were returned to Brazil and interred in the ‘Cathedral of São Pedro de Alcântara’ in Petrópolis. His death had a significant impact in Brazil, with the general public mourning his loss and a sense of regret among the republicans.