John V of Portugal
John V of Portugal was born on October 22, 1689. See ranking, bio blurb, and everyone else born that day.
About John V of Portugal
John V, 22 October 1689 – 31 July 1750), was King of Portugal from 9 December 1706 until his death in 1750. His reign saw the rise of Portugal to new levels of prosperity, wealth, and diplomatic prestige. Taxes from Gold mining in Colonial Brazil allowed John to spend lavishly on architectural works such as the Mafra National Palace, as well as art and literary collections. In order to boost Portugal's diplomatic standing, he expended large sums on embassies to the courts of Europe, most famous being those sent to Paris in 1715 and Rome in 1716. Disregarding traditional Portuguese institutions of governance, John ruled as an absolute monarch. As with previous monarchs from the House of Braganza, his reign was marked by numerous interventions into the affairs of other European states, most notably during the War of the Spanish Succession. Outside Europe, John pursued an expansionist policy in India and North America. A deeply religious man, John returned support from Pope Benedict XIV with a fervent devotion to the Catholic Church and significant donations. He received the title "Most Faithful Majesty" in return, although his relationship with the papacy varied depending .