Revolutionary Facts About Edward I, The Philosopher King Of Portugal
The Illustrious King Of Portugal
History is full of kings who made little distinction in their lives. People remember them only in passing, as a placeholder between one monarch and the next.
King Edward I of Portugal is not among these ranks—but that doesn’t mean his reputation is any better than those forgotten kings. Despite holding the throne for a short time, he made a foolish decision that has shaped Portugal to this day.
1. He Was The Product Of Two Countries
The birth of Edward marked the continued union between not just his parents, John I of Portugal and Philippa Lancaster, but of the two countries that they represented: Portugal and England. Edward (known as “Duarte” in his native Portuguese) was the second legitimate son of his parents. No one expected Edward to ascend to the throne.
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2. He Was One Of Many
When Edward’s parents married, there had been concern about Philippa’s ability to bear heirs due to her advanced age. She was 27. Despite this fear, she was more than capable of taking on the task. Edward was the third of eight children.
Including Edward, six of these children survived into adulthood.
Edward’s life changed forever not because of surviving, but because of loss.
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3. He Was The Spare
As the second son, Edward was not initially expected to inherit the throne. That honor was bestowed upon his elder brother, Afonso. There was only a year’s difference in age between Afonso, Edward, and his younger brother Peter.
The three brothers likely spent their childhood raised together—making Afonso’s passing at the age of 10 all the more difficult to comprehend.
4. His Life Changed In A Moment
Afonso’s passing reshaped the structure of the entire family. Edward was no longer the metaphorical “spare”, but the much more important “heir” to his father’s throne. His father took him into his trust and Edward followed his father’s politics closely. He was his confidante and right hand. And even before Edward succeeded to the throne, he inherited his father’s fights.
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