Ragamuffin War begins in Rio Grande do Sul (1835)

The Ragamuffin War began in Rio Grande do Sul on 20 September 1835 when rebel forces seized Porto Alegre. The conflict arose from dissatisfaction with imperial trade policies and demands for provincial autonomy. Key figures included Bento Gonçalves and Antônio de Sousa Neto, who later proclaimed the Riograndense Republic.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. The war emerged during Brazil's regency period, characterized by political instability and disputes over provincial autonomy. In Rio Grande do Sul, landowners opposed high export taxes and import duties on salt, which disadvantaged local produce compared to Uruguay and Argentina. These economic grievances fueled desires for greater autonomy and opposition to centralized imperial control.

Outbreak. On 20 September 1835, General Bento Gonçalves captured Porto Alegre, initiating an uprising against perceived unfair trade practices. Those who revolted against the imperial government became known as Ragamuffins (Portuguese: Farrapos). The Brazilian regent, Diogo Antônio Feijó, responded by appointing a new provincial president, who was forced to take office in exile in Rio Grande, further escalating tensions.

Political Context. The conflict was situated within the broader instability of the regency period, where armed conflicts exposed the fragility of imperial authority. The first gaúcha Legislative Assembly, inaugurated in April 1835, confronted the Provincial President, reflecting growing demands for federal relationships and customs protection for local products.

People involved

Sources

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