1826. Carta de Joaquim da Conceição Rico, capitão, para José Teles Viegas.

Letter from Joaquim da Conceição Rico to José Teles Viegas.

The author sends a note that apparently will serve as a safe conduct to the addressee and his family.

After D. João VI died (April 1826), D. Pedro approved a Constitution that was opposed by many rebels, and there was a growing political and military turmoil: several rebellions took place in different parts of the country and a group of Spaniards even took action in Alentejo, with support from local Portuguese inhabitants. The expression «Spanish rebels» refers to these men that took action against the new law. The defendant in this case, Joaquim daSilva Zagalo, was accused of dealing with them. He was first sentenced to death, but in 1827 he benefitted from a Royal pardon and walked free.