Maria I (Queen of Portugal)

Maria I was the Queen of Portugal from 1777 to 1816. Known as "Maria, the Pious," she was the first woman to rule Portugal in her own right. Her reign was marked by a focus on social reforms, including education and welfare, as well as challenges like the effects of the French Revolution. Maria I's mental health declined later in life, leading to her son, Prince John, governing the country as regent. Her reign ended when she became incapacitated, and she is remembered for her efforts to modernize Portugal amidst political turbulence.