Deodoro da Fonseca

Deodoro da Fonseca led a military coup that overthrew Emperor Pedro II on November 15, 1889. He proclaimed the Republic of the United States of Brazil, ending 67 years of imperial rule.

Deodoro da Fonseca was elected the first President of Brazil by the Constituent Congress on February 25, 1891. He took office under the new republican constitution, but his rule was brief and authoritarian.

Facing political opposition, Deodoro da Fonseca dissolved the National Congress on November 3, 1891, and declared a state of siege. This authoritarian act triggered a naval revolt and his eventual resignation.

Deodoro da Fonseca resigned the presidency on November 23, 1891, after a naval rebellion threatened his government. He handed power to Vice President Floriano Peixoto, ending his 9-month rule.