Maria I of Portugal
Queen of Portugal and Brazil
Born
Died
1816
209 years ago — 82 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Portugal
Links & References
Born in 1734, Maria I ascended to the Portuguese throne in 1777, becoming the first woman to rule the country in her own right. Her reign was marked by political upheaval, including the loss of Brazil, which declared independence in 1822. Maria faced personal challenges, including mental health issues that affected her ability to govern. After 1792, her son took on the duties of regent due to her declining health. Despite these challenges, her influence on Portuguese culture and society during her reign remains notable.
First female monarch of Portugal
Reigned during the time of Brazil's independence
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