Abstract
This article analyzes the limits of royal sovereignty in Paraíba do Sul through conflicts between the donatory captaincy and the governor of Rio de Janeiro. In 1674, the Portuguese monarchy granted it to the House of Asseca, but the territory was abandoned and subject to the occupations of religious orders, captains, and cattle ranchers. Years later, viscount Asseca retook control, but faced strong opposition from the governor who had annexed it illegally to the captaincy of Rio de Janeiro. In this conflict, rivals were not always guided by the dictates of the Crown. The abuses and conflicts of jurisdiction, intensified between 1727 and 1730, demonstrated the limits of royal sovereignty on the borders of the Empire. Also highlighted in the paper are the differences between royal interventions and the particular interests of the authorities supported by the monarchy.
Keywords:
Sovereignty; conflicts; colonial administration