Revolution of Maria da Fonte begins in Portugal

Background. The revolt resulted from social tensions remaining from the Liberal Wars, exacerbated by great popular discontent generated by new military recruitment laws, fiscal alterations, and the prohibition on burials inside churches. These measures fueled dissatisfaction with the Cartista government presided over by António Bernardo da Costa Cabral, who had dominated Portuguese politics since seizing power in 1842.

Outbreak. The uprising began in the area of Póvoa de Lanhoso in Minho. The instigator of the initial riots was a woman called Maria, native of the freguesia of Fontarcada, who became known as Maria da Fonte. The revolt gradually extended to the whole north of Portugal, sparking widespread discontent with the government's reforms.

Political Consequences. The uprising spread to the remainder of the country, provoking the replacement of the Costa Cabral government by one presided over by Pedro de Sousa Holstein. When Queen Maria II dismissed this government in a palace coup on October 6, 1846, the insurrection was reignited, triggering a civil war known as the Patuleia.