15. The transformation of the Empire of Brazil into a republic was launched more out of desperation than popular anger
Despite enjoying notably prestige, growing into an emerging power on the international stage, the abolition of slavery under the Golden Law on May 13, 1888, triggered a seismic shift in Brazilian politics. Signed into law by Princess Isabel whilst Pedro II was receiving medical treatment in Europe, despite not resulting in predicted widespread economic disruption, the act served to push ultraconservatives and wealthy farmers opposed to the change towards republicanism. Granted titles and honors in an effort to curry favor, whilst simultaneously extending enormous loans at favorable rates to farmers and reconstituting the National Guard, these actions increasingly garnered alarm among civilian observers.
Reorganizing the National Guard in August 1889, in an effort to increase loyalty and control within the body, republicans saw their window of opportunity to take action rapidly diminishing. Launching an uprising, supported by dissenting elements of the military on November 15, 1889, Pedro II failed to respond to the threat believing it was insignificant. Proclaiming the First Brazilian Republic on the same day in Rio de Janeiro, abolishing the position of emperor and exiling the imperial family two days later, a provisional government was concurrently formed under a new republican organization.