EncyclopediaPeter V
Peter V, 1837–61, king of Portugal (1853–61), eldest son and successor of Maria II. Ascending the throne on the death of his mother, he ruled under the regency of his father, Ferdinand II, until 1855. Well-traveled, cultured, and intelligent, he dedicated himself to his country's progress, promoting railroad and telegraph communications, abolishing slavery, and improving health and educational facilities. Peter died childless and was succeeded by his brother Louis I.
The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.
