The Murder of the Spanish Minister by the Portuguese Revolutionaries, 1640 (litho)

The Murder of the Spanish Minister by the Portuguese Revolutionaries, 1640. The origin of this revolution was the misgovernment of Portugal by the dissolute and incapable Duke d'Olivarez, a favourite of Philip IV of Spain. A conspiracy was formed amongst the nobles of Portugal to place the Duke of Braganza upon the throne, and the blow was struck at Lisbon. The Spanish guard was cut down, the conspirators entered the palace, and burst into the apartment of Miguel de Vasconcellos, who was particularly hated for his arrogance. The secretary was dragged from his hiding-place, a cupboard, and ruthlessly shot. Illustration for Hutchinson's History of the Nations (Hutchinson, c.1920). Note: Image has been digitally enhanced to facilitate repro.