The Birth of Manuel II: Last King of Portugal

The Birth of Manuel II

Manuel II: A Royal Legacy

On November 15, 1889, Manuel II was born in Lisbon, Portugal. He would go on to become the last reigning king of Portugal. His birth heralded the continuation of the Braganza dynasty, which had ruled Portugal since the 17th century. Manuel was destined for royalty, being the son of King Carlos I and Queen Amélia of Orléans. His upbringing in the palace was one filled with royal duties and expectations.

The Significance of His Birth

Manuel II's birth came during a period of great turmoil and change within Portugal. The nation was facing various political challenges, including republican movements that would later culminate in the revolution of 1910. Manuel II was born into a world where the stability of the monarchy was increasingly in question, setting the stage for his eventual rise to kingship.

Manuel II's Reign

Manuel II: The Last King

Manuel II ascended to the throne in 1908 after the assassination of his father, King Carlos I. His reign, from 1908 to 1910, was marked by significant political tension as he attempted to maintain the monarchy amidst rising republican sentiments. Despite his efforts, his kingship was short-lived as Portugal declared itself a republic in October 1910, leading to his exile.

Legacy of Manuel II

Even after his exile, Manuel II remained a symbol of the constitutional monarchy for many monarchists in Portugal. He spent the rest of his life in exile, largely in England and France, until his death in 1932. His legacy is examined through various lenses, particularly regarding the end of the monarchy in Portugal and the establishment of the Republic.

Fun Fact

Manuel II: The Bibliophile King

Aside from his royal duties, Manuel II was known for his exceptional love of literature. He acquired a vast collection of books, showing that his intellectual pursuits were a significant part of his identity as a king.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Manuel II

For those interested in exploring more about Manuel II and the royal history of Portugal, consider reading "The Last King of Portugal: Manuel II", which delves into his life and reign. Another great read is "The Collapse of the Portuguese Monarchy", which provides a broader context of the monarchy's challenges during the early 20th century.