Afonso V

Profession: King of Portugal

Nationality:

Biography: Afonso V, known as "the African" for his military achievements in North Africa, reigned as King of Portugal from 1438 to 1481, excluding his brief abdication. His expansionist policies in Africa and involvement in European dynastic disputes marked his reign as a critical period in the emergence of Portuguese colonialism.

Born in Sintra in 1432 to King Edward of Portugal and Eleanor of Aragon, Afonso V became heir to the throne following the death of his older brother. At six years old, he ascended to the throne, with a regency initially led by his mother and subsequently by his uncle, Pedro, Duke of Coimbra. He assumed full kingship after triumphing at the Battle of Alfarrobeira in 1449.

Afonso V's focus was largely on foreign conquests, capturing territories such as Alcácer Ceguer in 1458 and Arzila in 1471, as well as the territory of Tangiers being taken and lost multiple times between 1460 and 1464. These victories earned Afonso his sobriquet, "the African."

His reign saw trade monopolies established, including one granted to Fernão Gomes for exploration in the Gulf of Guinea. Afonso was also ruler when the Vatican's issued papal bulls sanctioning the enslavement of non-Christians, which had profound implications for the burgeoning slave trade and Portuguese colonial expansion.

Political ambitions led Afonso V to challenge the succession in neighboring Castile after the death of King Henry IV, as he supported his niece Joanna's claim to the throne and sought it for himself. The resulting conflict, including the notable Battle of Toro in 1476, ended unsuccessfully for Afonso.

Disillusioned by an unsuccessful alliance with France under King Louis XI, in 1477 Afonso would briefly abdicated the throne to his son John II but resumed his rule shortly after.

Afonso V's matrimonial life included a union with Isabella of Coimbra, with whom he fathered three children, one of whom was his successor, John II. He also fathered at least one illegitimate child with Maria Soares da Cunha.

Born: January 15, 1432
Birthplace: Sintra, Kingdom of Portugal
Star Sign: Capricorn

Died: August 28, 1481 (aged 49)