During the restoration and strengthening of the House of Braganza, in Portugal,
promoted by Manuel I between 1496 and 1521, a unique relationship of patronage
blossomed between Jaime (1479–1532), IV duke of Braganza, and his uncle, King Manuel.
An understanding of the broad reach of this relationship is essential to grasp an important
element in Manuel’s government. Also, the nature of the bonds established through this
confidence relationship clearly shows how government and the relating political process —
that is, the public sphere — were ultimately organised by criteria other than rationality.
They also follow emotional guidelines which mostly relate with the private domain,
including the network of solidarity between family members.
