Final answer:
The Portuguese royal family's move to Rio de Janeiro diminished sentiments toward independence in Brazil but also led to a break with Portugal. The monarchy brought political stability to Brazil and helped unite the nation, but it did not challenge colonial hierarchies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The presence of the Portuguese royal family in Rio de Janeiro from 1808 to 1821 diminished sentiments toward independence in Brazil. The royal court served as a source of power and authority, and many educated citizens identified with the monarchy. The external threat from Portugal also helped to unite the nation and end regional divisions.
However, the presence of the monarchy also played a role in Brazil's eventual break with Portugal. After João VI returned to Portugal in 1821, his son Pedro I was left as prince regent in Brazil. When the Portuguese Cortes ordered him to return to Europe, Pedro I refused and declared Brazil's independence on September 7, 1822.
The monarchy brought political stability to Brazil but did not challenge colonial hierarchies. The Brazilian Empire, established in 1822, adopted a constitutional monarchical system and remained one nation while Spanish America fragmented into multiple countries.