This work is an unedited manuscript from the Military Archives in Lisbon, Portugal. It was dedicated to the Portuguese Prince Regent, later João VI, by the author on September 10, 1804, under the following title: Descrição Corográfica, Política, Civil e Militar da Capitania do Rio Grande de São Pedro do Sul.
The author, Domingos José Marques Fernandes, was a Portuguese officer who had served in southern Brazil. Convinced of the economic and strategic importance of the Capitania to Portugal, and foreseeing its possible loss to Spain, he urged that the defensive capability of the region be strengthened. He also proposed administrative reorganization, and a vigorous program of economic development, including improved communications and augmented immigration. In 1808, following the personal presentation of his work in Portugal, the author returned to Brazil.
The following topics are treated in the four chapters which comprise the study: (1) geography and natural resources; (2) agriculture, stockraising, and industry; (3) frontier wars and treaties with the Spaniards; (4) the future of the Capitania.
The main historical narrative is found in Chapter III which records the sequence of border conflicts. The hostilities centered in the eastern section of the Capitania where the Portuguese and colonial Brazilians had progressively intruded since about 1719. Diplomatic relations of Portugal and Spain in the 18th century concerning this disputed region are also mentioned.
This study adds little to the known basic data of Brazilian history as are found, for example, in Varnhagen’s História geral do Brasil, it does, however, provide an insight into local history which merits the attention of the specialist. Topics treated in particular detail and with notable clarity, are military history, civil and military administration, including the role of the militia, Portuguese-Indian relations, stockraising and agriculture, geography, and the natural resources of the region.
The author was a perceptive observer, knew the area well, and understood its ecology; history has demonstrated the wisdom and practicality of his views. In using this work, however, it should be borne in mind that it represents special pleading, and offers no bibliographical sources or footnotes.