Poder naval e política externa do Império do Brasil no Rio da Prata (1822-1852)

Naval power and foreign policy of the Brazilian Empire in Rio da Prata (1822-1852)

Abstract

The article analyzes the politics of the Empire of Brazil in Rio de la Plata, from 1822 to 1852, and how it was supported by the Imperial Navy. It demonstrates that the Navy was responsible for the military balance in the Cisplatina War, which resulted in the Uruguayan independence, and helped to defeat Oribe, in Uruguay (1851), and Rosas, in Argentine (1852). The independence of Paraguay and Uruguay as well as the containment of any impulse of expansionism by Buenos Aires – which could be a threat to both and to Rio Grande do Sul – were then consolidated as objectives of Empire´s policy in the River Plate. Such a policy was supported by the coordination of diplomatic action and military power, especially by the Navy which could block Buenos Aires, the only foreseeable potential obstacle to the hegemony of the Empire in the region.