The Flight of the Portuguese Royal Family to Brazil (November 29, 1807)

As Junot’s army neared Lisbon, Prince Regent João of Braganza hesitated between complete submission to the French and escaping to Brazil. The indecision continued until a dramatic revelation changed the course of history.

The Final Decision – Napoleon’s Declaration of Deposition

• The British Admiral Sidney Smith, assisting in Portugal’s evacuation, produced a Paris Moniteur newspaper from October 13, 1807.
• The publication declared that the House of Braganza had been deposed—even though Junot had not yet entered Lisbon.
• This false but alarming claim convinced João that staying in Portugal was no longer an option.

The Chaotic Evacuation

• João ordered his family, courtiers, state papers, and royal treasury to be loaded onto ships.
• Many nobles, merchants, and officials joined the flight, fearing Napoleon’s rule.
• On November 29, 1807, a fleet of 15 warships and over 20 transports set sail for Brazil, Portugal’s largest colony.

A Desperate Escape

• The departure was so rushed that 14 carts filled with treasure were abandoned on the docks.
• The royal succession was placed at great risk—João, Queen Maria, Prince Pedro (future Pedro I of Brazil and Pedro IV of Portugal), and Infante Miguel (future Miguel I of Portugal) all traveled on a single ship.
• Carlota Joaquina and the infantas were placed on two other ships, further separating the royal family.

How Many People Fled?

The exact number of people who emigrated with João is debated:

• 19th-century sources estimated up to 30,000 refugees, though this figure is likely exaggerated.
• More recent estimates range between 500 and 15,000 passengers, with 15,000 being close to the maximum capacity of the fleet's 15 warships (including their crews).
• Many families were separated, and even high officials were left behind, unable to secure places on the ships.

A Historic Exile – The Portuguese Court in Brazil

The departure of the Portuguese monarchy for Brazil was unprecedented—never before had an entire European royal family relocated to a colony. The event would have profound consequences for both Portugal and Brazil, setting the stage for:

• The transformation of Brazil into the center of the Portuguese Empire.
• The eventual independence of Brazil in 1822.
• The decline of Portugal’s influence as Brazil took on a more autonomous role.

Conclusion – The End of Portugal’s Independence in Europe

As the royal family fled across the Atlantic, Junot entered Lisbon unopposed on November 30, 1807, marking the beginning of the French occupation of Portugal. The Portuguese state survived—but only in exile, while Napoleon’s ambitions in Iberia were about to trigger the Peninsular War.