Marquis of Pombal vs Ricardo Martinelli

Following the devastating Lisbon earthquake, tsunami, and fires, Pombal organized the city's reconstruction. He implemented a grid-based urban plan, standardized building designs with earthquake-resistant features, and oversaw the rebuilding of the city center, the Baixa Pombalina.

Pombal expelled the Society of Jesus from Portugal and its empire, confiscating their property. This action was part of his broader anti-clerical reforms to centralize state power and reduce Church influence, and it led to a break in relations with the Papacy.

Pombal orchestrated the trial and execution of the powerful T

Pombal decreed the abolition of slavery in mainland Portugal, though it continued in the colonies. This was one of the earliest such acts in Europe, motivated by economic and humanitarian considerations, and it freed thousands of enslaved people within the kingdom.

Pombal implemented a comprehensive educational reform, replacing Jesuit-run schools with state-controlled institutions. He introduced new curricula emphasizing sciences, mathematics, and practical knowledge, and founded the College of Nobles and reformed the University of Coimbra.

Ricardo Martinelli, a wealthy supermarket magnate, won the 2009 presidential election as the candidate of the Alliance for Change coalition. His campaign focused on anti-corruption and economic development, and he won with a landslide majority.

Martinelli's presidency oversaw rapid economic growth, major infrastructure projects (including the Panama Metro), and a controversial crackdown on crime. His administration was marked by allegations of authoritarianism, corruption, and nepotism, but also significant public works.

After leaving office, Martinelli faced multiple corruption investigations. In 2015, he fled to the United States but was later extradited to Panama in 2018. He was convicted of money laundering in 2019 and sentenced to prison, though he maintained his innocence.