september 7th - brazilian independence day (independência do brasil) is a national holiday celebrated throughout the country consisting of patriotic displays and marking the declaration of independence from the united kingdom of portugal, brazil and the algarves.

in 1822, then heir to the portuguese throne, pedro i still remained in brazil even though the rest of the royal family, including his father john vi, were back in portugal following their return in 1820.

with demands from portugal to return and reestablish brazil to colony terms, he instituted many acts that started the process of self rule and finally after a final demand to return, he proclaimed 'independence or death' on the 7th of september 1922.