The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. 2001-07.
Peter V, king of Portugal
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.
