General Notes

John IV, in Portuguese, Joao IV, called The Fortunate (1605-56), king of
Portugal (1640-56), the first of the Braganza kings. He governed Portugal with
energy and ability, restoring finances and promoting commerce and agriculture.
He proclaimed himself king after driving out the Spanish usurpers in 1640 and
finally routing them at the Battle of Montijo (1644). In 1649 and 1654 the
Portuguese won important naval victories over the Dutch off the coast of
Brazil, thereby regaining their possessions in South America. By his capable
administration, John succeeded in restoring Portugal to a respected place in
Europe.