---
node: sa_empire_brazil
type: organization
slug: empire_of_brazil
title: "Empire of Brazil"
lead: "The Empire of Brazil (1822–1889) was the constitutional monarchy that ruled independent Brazil under two emperors. It was the only long-lasting monarchy in the independent Americas."
published: 2026-07-13
updated: 2026-07-13
---

## What it was

Founded when Pedro I declared independence in 1822, the empire was governed as a constitutional monarchy with a parliament. Pedro II's long reign from 1831 brought relative stability and growth.

## Role

The empire preserved Brazil's territorial unity while most of Spanish America splintered into many republics. Its economy long depended on coffee exports and on enslaved labor.

## Fate

Brazil abolished slavery in 1888, and a military coup ended the monarchy in 1889, proclaiming a republic. The empire is remembered as the framework of Brazil's early nationhood.