Maria I of Portugal

Maria I of Portugal, born in 1734, was the first female monarch of Portugal, ruling from 1777 until 1816. She became queen after her father, King Joseph I, died. Maria I is notable for her commitment to social reforms and her efforts to modernize Portugal, promoting education and the arts. However, her reign was marked by personal tragedy, including bouts of mental illness. After her son became the regent in 1792, her influence diminished. Maria I's reign ended with her death in 1816, leaving a complex legacy in Portuguese history.