D. Pedro II: A Biography of the Last Emperor of Brazil

A Comprehensive and Engaging Biography

José Murilo de Carvalho's biography of D. Pedro II is a comprehensive and engaging account of the life and reign of the last emperor of Brazil. Drawing on a wide range of sources, Carvalho paints a vivid portrait of a complex and fascinating figure who ruled Brazil for nearly 50 years.

The Early Years

D. Pedro II was born in 1825 to Emperor Pedro I and Empress Maria Leopoldina. He was a sickly child, and his early years were marked by tragedy. His mother died when he was only one year old, and his father abdicated the throne when he was just five. D. Pedro II was raised by his grandmother, Maria I, who instilled in him a strong sense of duty and responsibility.

The Reign of D. Pedro II

D. Pedro II ascended to the throne in 1840 at the age of 15. He quickly proved to be a capable and intelligent ruler. He was a patron of the arts and sciences, and he encouraged the development of Brazil's economy and infrastructure. Under his rule, Brazil became a major power in South America.

The Paraguayan War

One of the most significant events of D. Pedro II's reign was the Paraguayan War (1864-1870). Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay formed an alliance against Paraguay, which was led by the ambitious dictator Francisco Solano López. The war was a bloody and costly affair, but it ended in victory for the allies.

The Abolition of Slavery

Another major achievement of D. Pedro II's reign was the abolition of slavery in Brazil. Slavery had been a part of Brazilian society for centuries, but it was finally abolished in 1888. D. Pedro II played a key role in the abolition movement, and he is considered one of the most important figures in Brazilian history.

The Fall of the Empire

Despite his many achievements, D. Pedro II was eventually overthrown in a military coup in 1889. The coup was led by a group of military officers who were unhappy with the emperor's rule. D. Pedro II was exiled to Europe, where he died in 1891.

A Complex and Fascinating Figure

D. Pedro II was a complex and fascinating figure. He was a brilliant ruler who oversaw a period of great progress in Brazil. He was also a kind and compassionate man who was deeply loved by his people. José Murilo de Carvalho's biography of D. Pedro II is a must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian history.

Why You Should Read This Book

José Murilo de Carvalho's biography of D. Pedro II is a must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian history. It is a comprehensive and engaging account of the life and reign of the last emperor of Brazil. Carvalho paints a vivid portrait of a complex and fascinating figure who ruled Brazil for nearly 50 years.

This book is also a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of Latin America. D. Pedro II's reign was a time of great change and upheaval in the region, and his biography provides a unique perspective on these events.

Carvalho's writing is clear and concise, and he does an excellent job of weaving together the personal and political aspects of D. Pedro II's life. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian history or the history of Latin America.