Companhia Geral do Comércio do Brasil act of incorporation


Descriptive Summary
Title: Companhia Geral do Comércio do Brasil act of incorporation
Creator: Alveres, Antonio
Inclusive Dates: 1649
Language(s): Portuguese
Extent: 1 volume(s)
Collection Number: ms507
Repository: Hargrett Library

Collection Description

Historical Note

The Companhia Geral do Comércio do Brasil (General Company for Trade of Brazil) was a monopoly created under the reign of John IV of Portugal (1640-1656) in Portugal . Founded in 1649 in the context of the second Dutch invasion of Brazil (1630-1654), it was intended to assist in the resistance of invaders, promoting the recovery of agricultural products, e.g., sugar, in the region. The main function was to provide African slaves to northeastern Brazil and to ensure the safe transport of sugar to Europe.

Scope and Content

The collection consists of the act of incorporation and by-laws of Companhia Geral para o Estado do Brazil, executed in Lisbon on March 8, 1649; Royal Charter of approval, dated March 8, 1649; and Decree authorizing the use of no more than 36 warships to safeguard and convoy vessels voyaging to Brazil. Also included is a Royal Decree March 11, 1649, authorizing Antonio Alveres to print the terms and conditions of said Companhia. Printed in Lisbon by Antonio Alveres, Royal Printer of the King Our Lord, 1649.