Riograndense Republic

Quick Facts: Who was Riograndense Republic?

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Riograndense Republic

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A 19th-century Brazilian separatist state that declared independence from the Empire.

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2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

The Riograndense Republic, often called the Piratini Republic (Portuguese: República Rio-Grandense or República do Piratini), was a de facto state that seceded from the Empire of Brazil and roughly coincided with the present state of Rio Grande do Sul. It was proclaimed on 11 September 1836 by general Antônio de Sousa Neto as a direct consequence of the victory obtained by gaúcho oligarchic forces at the Battle of Seival (1836) during the Ragamuffin War (1835–1845). It had a constitution adopted in 1843 and was recognised only by the United Kingdom, France, and Uruguay. In 1839, the Riograndense Republic formed a confederation with the short-lived Juliana Republic (Portuguese: República Juliana) which proclaimed its independence in the same year. November 1839, however, saw the war result in the defeat and disappearance of the Juliana Republic.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

The Riograndense Republic had five capitals during its nearly nine years of existence: the cities of Piratini (for which it is often called Piratini Republic), Alegrete, Caçapava do Sul (official capitals), Bagé (for only two weeks), and São Borja. The war between the Gaúchos and the Brazilian Empire was ended by the Ponche Verde Treaty. The economy of the then Province of São Pedro of Rio Grande do Sul of the Empire of Brazil was mainly focused on the production of jerky and leather. The province depended entirely on the domestic market, but the overvalued exchange rate and the tariff benefits then offered meant that imported beef was cheaper. Thus, the estancieiros of the region, among them the famous Bento Gonçalves, began a rebellion against the Imperial Government.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

After a meeting, it was decided that armed militias would be formed under the leadership of Gonçalves inside the province to take over the provincial government. The initial objective to take over the province's government was successfully achieved, the rebels then planned to enter into negotiations with the imperial regent Diogo Antônio Feijó to demand a new provincial government acceptable to the regional elite. Meanwhile, the newly appointed Imperial Governor of the Province, José de Araújo Ribeiro, completely rejected by that elite, took office nevertheless. This was seen by the landowners as a declaration of war. Araújo Ribeiro then began gathering his soldiers who had been scattered since October, and hunting down Farroupilhos.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1836: 1836 Milestone — It was proclaimed on 11 September 1836 by general Antônio de Sousa Neto as a direct consequence of the victory obtained by gaúcho oligarchic forces at the Battle of Seival (1836) during the Ragamuffin War (1835–1845).
2. 1839: 1839 Milestone — In 1839, the Riograndense Republic formed a confederation with the short-lived Juliana Republic (Portuguese: República Juliana) which proclaimed its independence in the same year.
3. 1843: 1843 Milestone — It had a constitution adopted in 1843 and was recognised only by the United Kingdom, France, and Uruguay.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Riograndense Republic

True or False: “The Riograndense Republic was immediately recognized by all major world powers upon its proclamation in 1836.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): It was only recognized by a select few nations, specifically the United Kingdom, France, and Uruguay.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Riograndense Republic