Restoration of Independence in Portugal ― Date, History, and Details

Restoration of Independence in Portugal

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History of Restoration of Independence in Portugal and How to Celebrate/ Observe It

In 1807, Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Portugal, forcing the Portuguese royal family to flee to Brazil. Napoleon installed his brother, Joseph Bonaparte, as king of Portugal. However, the Portuguese people were not happy with French rule, and in 1808 they rose up in revolt. The revolt was led by a general named João Maria da Silva Rolim de Moura, who became known as the “Constable of Portugal.” The Constable and his men were able to drive the French out of Portugal, and in 1811 they declared independence from France. However, the Portuguese royal family still lived in Brazil, and so Portugal was ruled by a regent, João Miguel da Câmara. In 1820, a liberal revolution broke out in Portugal, and the regent was overthrown. The royal family then returned to Portugal and King John VI was restored to the throne.