Park Crescent, Regent's Park, and the Spaces of Brazilian Diplomacy in London, 1822-1829

Abstract

This article explores the history of Brazilian diplomacy abroad during its formative period, investigating addresses, buildings and neighbourhoods where the first agents of the Court of Rio lived and worked in London, between 1822 and 1829, and why they installed the first legation at Park Crescent, Regent's Park. The objective is to discuss the meaning of local spaces for the history of the mission and the representation of the Court of Rio in other territories. The article demonstrates that the first Brazilian legation was installed in a new, rich and modern district of London at the time, presenting itself in a different space from the other legations and embassies. In conclusion, it is argued that this expressed a policy of seeking legitimacy with a specific sector of that society, namely, bankers, investors and merchants, who had business in Brazil, and fortifying their relationship with Brazilian diplomats and with the new state in formation.