The Death of Pedro IV and the Political Struggle Between Moderates and Radicals (1834–1836)

After securing victory for the liberals in the Portuguese Civil War (1828–1834), Pedro IV (Emperor Pedro I of Brazil) died on September 24, 1834, less than three months after his triumph. His fifteen-year-old daughter, Maria da Glória, was proclaimed Queen Maria II of Portugal (r. 1834–1853), but her reign was immediately plagued by political divisions among the victors.

Liberal Divisions – Moderates vs. Radicals

Although the liberals had defeated the absolutists, they were not united:

• Moderates (Charterists)

  • Supported the Constitutional Charter of 1826, which established a constitutional monarchy with a bicameral legislature.
  • Represented noble elites, military leaders, and conservative liberals.
  • Favored a gradual approach to reform.

• Radicals (Setembristas)

  • Advocated for a return to the more democratic Constitution of 1822.
  • Represented urban middle-class liberals, intellectuals, and reformists.
  • Sought stronger parliamentary power and more social and economic reforms.

Frequent Government Collapses (1834–1836)

1. The Duke of Palmela’s Moderate Government (1834–1835)

   • The first government of Maria II was led by the moderate Duke of Palmela.
   • His administration collapsed in May 1835, unable to resolve economic problems or manage liberal divisions.

2. The Duke of Saldanha’s Short-Lived Rule (1835–1836)

   • In May 1835, the Duke of Saldanha took over but also failed to maintain stability.
   • By May 1836, his government collapsed, leading to another crisis.

The Radical Takeover – The Setembrista Revolution (September 1836)

• In July 1836, radical deputies were elected from Porto, advocating for a return to the Constitution of 1822 as a solution to Portugal’s economic crisis.
• When they arrived in Lisbon, they were met with large pro-radical demonstrations, further pressuring the government.
• On September 9, 1836, the moderate government collapsed, and the radicals, led by Manuel da Silva Passos, took control.
• The Constitutional Charter of 1826 was annulled, and the Constitution of 1822 was reinstated until it could be revised by a constituent Cortes.

Conclusion – Portugal Enters a Period of Political Instability

The victory of the liberals in 1834 did not bring stability, as internal divisions between moderates and radicals led to constant political upheaval. The radical Setembristas now controlled the government, but their rule would soon face conservative opposition, leading to further conflict and instability in Portugal’s political evolution.