Politics of the Empire of Brazil
A unique constitutional monarchy that evolved into a parliamentary system.
The politics of the Empire of Brazil operated within a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The Emperor served as head of state and, before 1847, also as the actual head of government; after 1847, the President of the Council of Ministers became the de facto head of government. Executive power was exercised by the government, legislative power was vested in both the government and the two chambers of the General Assembly, and the judiciary was independent. A fourth power, the Moderating Power, was exercised by the emperor. The Empire was divided into provinces, with the number changing over time—for example, Cisplatina was lost in 1828, and Paraná was created in 1853, resulting in 20 provinces plus the Neutral Municipality only after 1853.
- known_for
- Constitutional monarchy evolving into a parliamentary system with a Moderating Power
Lore & Background
Upon independence from Portugal in 1822, Brazil adopted a monarchical form of government due to fears of the chaos seen in former Spanish American colonies, a desire for stability and liberty, and the need to maintain traditions from European, African, and Native American monarchical societies. The choice of Prince Pedro of the House of Braganza provided a symbol of national unity and deterred European intervention. The imperial regime was based on the idea that sovereignty resided in the Nation, not the State, with the emperor representing constant national interests and the Assembly representing particular, ephemeral interests.
Reader's Guide
The Empire of Brazil's political system was distinctive for blending monarchical and parliamentary elements. The Constitution of 1824 created a presidential monarchy, but the creation of the Moderating Power and the evolution of representative institutions allowed a transition to a parliamentary model without amending the charter. Key steps included the 1824 charter giving the General Assembly a leading role, a 1826 demand by deputy Bernardo Pereira de Vasconcelos for ministers to present financial accounts, and the 1847 creation of the President of the Council of Ministers. The Brazilian Parliament became increasingly important, with ministers presenting accounts, making annual reports, and answering criticism. Foreign observers noted Brazil's broad freedom of speech and 'exaggerated parliamentarism.' The system featured solid parties, an active parliament, a free press, and open debate, with the possibility of motions of no confidence against the cabinet.
Did You Know?
- Before 1847, the Emperor of Brazil was both head of state and head of government; after 1847, the President of the Council of Ministers became the de facto head of government.
- The Moderating Power was a fourth power exercised by the emperor, separate from the executive, legislative, and judiciary.
- The creation of the President of the Council of Ministers in 1847 was a key step in consolidating Brazilian parliamentarism.
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