Pedro I of Brazil was born on October 12, 1798, in Lisbon, Portugal. He was the son of King John VI of Portugal and became the first Emperor of Brazil after declaring independence from Portugal in 1822. His reign marked the transition of Brazil from a colony to an independent empire. Pedro I ruled until 1831 when he abdicated in favor of his son, Pedro II of Brazil, due to political pressure and dissatisfaction with his leadership. He later returned to Portugal, where he played a significant role in the Liberal Wars. Pedro I died on September 24, 1834.