Dom Pedro II (1825-1891) - technically became emperor of Brazil in 1831 at five years of age after his father, Dom Pedro I, first emperor of Brazil, abdicated the throne due to strong opposition in the Brazilian Parliament and political unrest. Over the next 10 years Dom Pedro, virtually a figurehead emperor, was studying and learning to prepare himself for the emperorship. During this period, rule over Brazil was turbulent with antagonistic groups seeking to dominate the country.
In 1840, at the age of 15, Dom Pedro II was declared of age and was crowned Emperor in 1841. Although still a young boy, Dom Pedro was intelligent and had deep concern for his subjects, keeping the radical groups at bay with the aid of the military. With the aid of excellent counselors, he guarded his country's sovereignty in disputes with Great Britain and the United States. He provided for Brazil's troubled economy by encouraging coffee production rather than sugar and made gains in railroad, telegraph and cable construction. Dom Pedro II reigned over Brazel for 49 years, with the support of most Brazilians. However, towards the end of his reign his support weakened due, in part, to his opposition to slavery. Over the decades, he had gradually enforced abolition, so as not to upset the landowners. By 1888, 700,000 slaves were freed with no provision to compensate the owners. In 1889 a military coup forced him to abdicate, and the royal family went into hiding in Europe,