Henrique Dias
*The birth of Henrique Dias is celebrated on July 3, 1590. He was an Afro Brazilian Portuguese soldier and militia leader.
From Bahia, Brazil, there is no agreement among historians whether he was born free or as a slave. He led a military regiment composed of enslaved and freed slaves and was known as "Governor of the Blacks" in 1636. Dias defended Portuguese settlements against Dutch forces and played a crucial role in the First and Second Battles of Guararapes, in the defense of Salvador, Bahia, and the restoration of Portuguese control over Pernambuco. Dias' title was expanded to "Governor of All Creoles, Blacks, and Mulattoes," in 1639.
Dias traveled to Portugal and petitioned the crown to grant his requests. Dias requested that the enslaved Blacks who served with him be freed and should have "all the rights and privileges of white units." Dias also requested compensation for his efforts and was permitted to serve if he chose to do so. The question of whether Dias received nobility status in Brazil is a matter of debate.
Some believe he was granted Knighthood in the Order of Christ, while others argue that he never received this title and instead requested that the men marrying his daughters be granted Knighthood. Henrique Dias died on June 8, 1662.
