Miguel II, Duke of Braganza

Miguel II of Bragança, in English Michael II of Braganza (September 19, 1853- October 11, 1927) was the head of the Migueline line of the dynasty of Braganza, and claimed to have been the 22nd Duke of Bragança.

Related Topics:
English - September 19 - 1853 - October 11 - 1927 - Duke of Bragança

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He was born in Kleinheubach Castle near Miltenberg, Bavaria, during the exile in Germany of his father, former king Miguel I of Portugal. His mother was Adelaide, princess of Lowenstein-Wertheim-Rochefort-Rosenberg.

Related Topics:
Miltenberg - Bavaria - Germany - Miguel I of Portugal

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As the son of King Miguel, the duke was forbidden to enter Portuguese territory. Therefore, he was educated in Germany and Austria. He was a member of the staff of Franz Josef, emperor of Austria and took part in the occupation of Bosnia. It is said that the emperor liked the duke immensely and granted him the privilege of extra-territoriality that allowed him to remain Portuguese, despite the rejection of Portugal. During World War I, Miguel was one of the field marshals of the Austrian army until, in 1917, Portugal entered the conflict on the opposite side. Immediately he asked for exoneration and served the rest of the war as a civilian, in the Order of Malta. After the end of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Miguel and his family were thrown into relative poverty.

Related Topics:
Portuguese - Austria - Franz Josef, emperor of Austria - Bosnia - World War I - 1917 - Order of Malta - Austro-Hungarian Empire

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