Government moved toward a cabinet government rather than one controlled by nobles. Three secretaries were given wider power and became the effective cabinet, the Junta dos Três Estados (suppressed 1813).
JOSEPH I. Government run by the Marquis de Pombal (Sebastião José de Carvalho e Mello, who became Marquis de Pombal only in 1770). He devoted himself to breaking the power of the privileged nobility and the Church. He reformed the finances and the army, encouraged industry and trade (establishment of trade companies with monopolistic powers), tried to revive agriculture (silk raising), and did much to develop primary and technical education.
The GREAT EARTHQUAKE AT LISBON, which was accompanied by fire and by flood of the Tagus. Tens of thousands lost their lives in the disaster. Lisbon destroyed, with many of its treasures. The city was rebuilt under Pombal's energetic direction.
Riot at Porto of small producers and trades, protesting attempted control of the wine market by Company for the Agriculture of the Alto Douro Wines. The company continued its policies despite the riots.
Conspiracy of the Tavoras. A group of nobles against the king and Pombal. The leaders, among them members of the highest aristocracy, were tortured and executed.
Jesuit manuals and methods forbidden for use in teaching children. Classes in Latin, Greek, Hebrew, and rhetoric established for children throughout Portugal.
