José Bonifácio de Andrada: Hidden Founding Father of Brazil
Every country had its challenges when it came to fighting for independence. "Brazil's nineteenth-century experience, not only retained a monarchical form of government while every other independent country in Latin America became republic, but declared independence while keeping the Portuguese royal family on the throne." (Levine, xiv) Though Brazil was an exception because there was no war of independence but there was chaotic mess. One important leader who helped create the monarchy and guided the first emperors of Brazil went by the name of Jose Bonifacio de Andrada e Silva.
Before he was considered one of the founding fathers in Brazil he was, “a Brazilian-born statesman and natural scientist” (Encyclopedia of World Biography) Bonifacio was in a well position in society because he went to school in São Paulo, Brazil then received his higher education in Portugal in the University of Coimbra. Jose Bonifacio graduated and obtained a degree in philosophy and law. He was very prominent in science and governmental issues. Soon after he graduated from the university, Bonifacio was involved in a scientific mission involving, “mining, mineralogy, and chemistry in Paris and mining in Saxony.” (Encyclopedia) He was well known in Portuguese government because, “The survey took 10 years and gained him a reputation as a natural scientist of note.” (Encyclopedia of World Biography) Through his good reputations, Bonifacio immediately began being appointed by the government though it would not involve scientific issues. He would contribute and hold responsibilities in the, “fight against the Napoleonic invasion, rising to the rank of lieutenant colonel and a command position.” (Encyclopedia of World Biography) That was when Bonifacio would begin to play in important role in organizing and the searching for the