Independence of Brazil

Hello. My name is Pedro, and I was a prince. I lived in a wonderful, sunny land called Brazil. It was so beautiful. Colorful birds flew through the big green trees, and playful monkeys swung from the branches. I loved my home very much. My father was the king, but one day he had to sail far, far away across the big ocean back to a place called Portugal. He asked me to stay and take care of Brazil. I was happy to help because Brazil was my favorite place in the whole world. I loved the warm sunshine and all the friendly people who lived there.

One day, some important people from Portugal sent me a letter. The letter said I had to leave Brazil and go back across the ocean to be with them. This made the people of Brazil very sad. They came to me and said, “Please, Prince Pedro, don’t go. Please stay with us.” Seeing their sad faces made my heart feel heavy. I knew I couldn't leave them. I loved Brazil and its people too much. I looked at all my friends and made a very big decision. I told them, “I will stay.” Everyone cheered because they were so happy I was going to stay and help them.

On a sunny day, September 7th, 1822, I was riding my horse near a river. I thought about how much everyone loved our home. It was time for Brazil to be its own special country. I pulled out my sword, pointed it to the sky, and gave a great big shout so everyone could hear. I shouted, “Independence.” That was a big word that meant Brazil was free. It could make its own rules now. All the people cheered and waved. It was a very happy day, and it showed how much we can do when we love our home.