Manuel Cipriano da Costa's book focuses on a single, explosive day in Brazilian history. On April 25, 1828, a faction within the military, unhappy with Emperor Pedro I's rule, launched a daring plan to seize power and reshape the young nation. The book follows the conspirators from their final, tense preparations through the chaotic execution of their coup attempt.

The Story

The action is confined mostly to Rio de Janeiro. We see the rebels moving through the city, trying to secure key locations and rally support. But nothing goes as planned. Loyalist forces react quickly, public support fails to materialize, and the conspiracy begins to unravel almost immediately. By nightfall, the revolution is over. The story then looks at the aftermath—the arrests, the swift trials, and how this failed day was quietly pushed out of the national memory.

Why You Should Read It

This isn't a dry history lesson. Costa writes with urgency, making you feel the clock ticking down alongside the conspirators. The real fascination isn't in their success, but in their spectacular failure. It’s a gripping study of how fragile political plans can be. You get a real sense of the personalities involved—their idealism, their miscalculations, and their fear. It shows history isn't just made by the winners, but also by the moments that almost were.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves real-life political intrigue or stories about underdogs. If you enjoyed books about failed expeditions or botched heists, you'll find the same tense energy here. It’s also a great, quick read for history fans tired of the same old stories about emperors and generals, offering a raw look at the messy, human side of building a country.