Final answer:
The Portuguese royal family fled to Brazil to escape a French invasion in 1807. Brazil was declared independent from Portugal in 1822 by Pedro I, the son of the Portuguese king who opted to stay in Brazil. The presence of the Portuguese royal family in Brazil before its independence played a significant role in unifying the nation and shaping its future.
Step-by-step explanation:
The territory that was made an independent empire by Portugal's royal family is none other than Brazil. In 1807, when French forces sought to invade Portugal, the Portuguese royal family, led by João VI, fled to Brazil and established Brazil as their base of operations. Over time, João VI’s son, Pedro I, took over control of Brazil and, in 1822, openly declared Brazil's independence from Portugal, thereby cementing the establishment of the Empire of Brazil.
João VI, who became the de facto ruler of Brazil during his stay, decided to remain in Brazil even after the fall of Napoleon in 1814, turning Brazil into a kingdom. It was not until he was called back by the Portuguese Cortes in 1821 that he returned to Portugal, leaving his son Pedro in charge. Pedro I later took the step of disconnecting from Portugal and asserted Brazil's sovereignty.
During the thirteen years preceding Brazil's independence, the presence of the Portuguese royal family helped to unify the nation. At that time, an external threat from Portugal even helped to end regional divisions in Brazil. Additionally, the economic and political structures built during this era continued to influence Brazil’s sociopolitical landscape farther down the line.
Learn more about Brazil's Independence