General Notes

Pedro I (1798-1834), emperor of Brazil (1822-31), the second son of King John
VI of Portugal, born in Lisbon. To escape a French invasion of Portugal, Pedro
and his parents fled to Brazil in 1807. In 1821, when his father returned
home, Pedro became prince regent of Brazil. The following year he proclaimed
Brazilian independence and was crowned emperor of Brazil. Proclaimed king of
Portugal in 1826, he abdicated that same year in favor of his daughter Maria
II. Pedro's arbitrary rule and his involvement in the internal affairs of
Portugal caused his popularity to wane in Brazil. He abdicated as emperor of
Brazil in 1831 and returned to Portugal, where he supported Maria against his
brother Miguel, her rival for the throne.