In 1822, Minister José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva wrote to the Provisional Government of Minas Gerais, a few days after the Proclamation of Brazil's Independence.
- Handwritten letter signed by José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva to the Provisional Government of the province of Minas Gerais.
- One page.
- In Portuguese.
- 21.9 cm x 15.6 cm.
- Rio de Janeiro, September 18, 1822.
- Excellent condition of conservation.
- Unique piece.
No. 57
His Royal Highness the Prince Regent orders, through the Secretariat of State for the Affairs of the Kingdom, to forward to the Provisional Government of the Province of Minas Gerais the enclosed Request of Francisco das Chagas Viana, who requests, for the services he claims, the Habit of the Order of Christ. And He pleases to inform about this claim.
Palace of Rio de Janeiro, September 18, 1822.
Joseph Bonifacio of Andrada and Silva
It is difficult to briefly and pertinently describe the entire life of a great historical figure like José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva. In short, in the first part of his life, the native of Santos stood out as a scientist passionate about mineralogy, recognized in Europe for his research. Upon returning to Brazil, he assumed important political positions and was appointed tutor to Dom Pedro II by Dom Pedro I, after independence. He significantly influenced the young Emperor with his passion for science, in addition to his abolitionist and, in general, humanist ideas.
However, his best-known legacy was his fundamental role in the tireless fight for the country's emancipation from Portuguese rule: José Bonifácio de Andrada is considered the "Father of Brazilian Independence" in 1822. He defended independence from Portugal and the maintenance of a monarchical regime under the regency of D. Pedro.
This short letter was written by José Bonifácio de Andrade e Silva on September 18, 1822, a few days after Independence, which culminated on September 7 with the “cry of Ipiranga” by Regent Dom Pedro. From Rio de Janeiro, Bonifacio officially mentions his role as Minister at the orders of the Prince Regent, and the recipient, the Provisional Government of Minas Gerais. His large signature is also impressive. Letters by José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva are uncommon and very rare in this decisive year of Independence, even more so in perfect condition despite being 100 years old.
