Seat of colonial administration moved to Rio de Janeiro

Background. Until 1763 the title "Viceroy" was only occasionally granted to governors of Brazil who belonged to the high nobility, while the remaining governors kept the title "governor-general". The colony itself continued to be officially designated a "state", since the term "viceroyalty" never formally named it.

Transfer of the Seat of Administration. On 27 January 1763 the colonial administration in Portuguese America was moved from Salvador to Rio de Janeiro, which thereby became the capital of the State of Brazil. At the same time the title "viceroy" became permanent and was granted to all governors of the State.

Aftermath. Benefiting from its role as federal capital over a long period beginning in 1763, Rio de Janeiro developed into a dynamic administrative, financial, commercial, and cultural center. The city remained primarily a colonial capital until 1808, when the Portuguese royal family arrived fleeing Napoleon's invasion of Portugal.