Brazil‘s emperor Dom Pedro II was ruler when Brazil issued its first national postage stamps, the so-called “Bull’s Eyes” of 1843. In 1866, Brazil issued stamps more akin to modern stamps, and these often featured portraits of Pedro II, until a military uprising deposed him in 1889. Emperor Dom Pedro II stamps remain highly collectible today.
More about Dom Pedro II
Pedro II ruled from 1831 to 1889, a period of 58 years. He was born on December 2nd, 1825, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Pedro II was considered a symbol of stability in Brazil and his reign is known for being one of the longest in the world for a monarch in a non-colonial country.
Pedro II was educated privately and was fluent in several languages, including Portuguese, French, English, and German. He was also known for his interest in science, history, and the arts. Despite being a constitutional monarch, Pedro II had a significant influence on Brazilian politics and was beloved by the Brazilian people.
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However, towards the end of his reign, the monarchy faced increasing opposition and his popularity declined. The abolition of slavery in 1888 was seen as a major blow to the Brazilian economy. Pedro II faced criticism for his handling of the situation. In 1889, a republic was declared in Brazil and Pedro II was forced to abdicate the throne. He was exiled to Europe and spent the rest of his life there.
Pedro II died on December 5th, 1891, in Paris, France. He is remembered as one of Brazil’s greatest monarchs and his reign is considered a golden age in Brazilian history.
Collecting Dom Pedro II stamps
When buying Dom Pedro II stamps from Brazil, note that many sellers mistakenly refer to “Don Pedro”. “Dom” is a Portuguese title — though it is “Don” in Spanish — and his name wasn’t Don. Many sellers also leave off the “II” part; there were, of course, no postage stamps under Dom Pedro I, whose reign ended in 1831.
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In addition to original Brazilian stamps from the end of the imperial era that showed a likeness of Pedro II, there have been more recent stamps from modern Brazil that honor or commemorate Dom Pedro II in various ways; any such stamps may be included here.
