Riograndense Republic proclaimed in southern Brazil

Background. The proclamation occurred during the Ragamuffin War, which began in 1835 with the seizure of Porto Alegre by rebel forces. The conflict evolved into a confrontation between the Brazilian imperial government and a coalition led by Bento Gonçalves and Antônio de Sousa Neto. The victory at the Battle of Seival in 1836 directly precipitated the declaration of independence, marking a significant escalation in the struggle for provincial autonomy.

Proclamation Details. General Antônio de Sousa Neto, acting as colonel-commander of the 1st cavalry brigade, declared the independence of the Riograndense Republic on 11 September 1836. The proclamation was read out before assembled troops at Campo dos Menezes. This act established the Republic of Piratini, with Bento Gonçalves nominated as president, although he was subsequently arrested by imperial forces.

Early Governance. Following the proclamation, the new republic operated from shifting inland capitals such as Piratini, as Porto Alegre remained in Imperial control after being recaptured in June 1836. Bento Gonçalves was appointed as the first President by the Ragamuffin Assembly and took office on 6 November 1836, alongside four vice presidents, establishing the initial administrative structure of the new state.