Treaty of Rio de Janeiro (1825)

The Treaty of Rio de Janeiro, signed on August 29, 1825, formally recognized the independence of Brazil by Portugal. This treaty marked the end of the Brazilian War of Independence (1822-1824) and established diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Key provisions of the treaty included:

• Recognition of Independence: Portugal officially acknowledged Brazil as an independent and sovereign nation.
• Title of Emperor: Portugal recognized Dom Pedro I as Emperor of Brazil.
• Indemnity Payment: Brazil agreed to pay Portugal an indemnity of two million pounds sterling as compensation for the loss of the colony. This payment was largely facilitated through British loans.
• Succession Rights: While Dom Pedro I was recognized as Emperor, the treaty addressed succession rights in both Brazil and Portugal, aiming to clarify the separation of the two royal lines.

The Treaty of Rio de Janeiro was brokered with significant mediation from Great Britain, reflecting Britain's growing influence in the region and its interest in fostering trade relations with an independent Brazil. The treaty was a crucial step in solidifying Brazil's position on the world stage and shaping its relationship with its former colonial power. While officially ending the war, the indemnity payment placed a significant financial burden on the newly formed Brazilian Empire.