# Sebastian of Portugal

> King of Portugal from 1557 to 1578

**Wikidata**: [Q272899](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q272899)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sebastian,_King_of_Portugal)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/sebastian-of-portugal

## Summary
Sebastian of Portugal was the King of Portugal from 1557 to 1578, known for his reign during a pivotal period in Portuguese history. His disappearance at the Battle of Alcácer Quibir in 1578 led to the rise of Sebastianism, a messianic myth centered on his anticipated return to save Portugal.

## Biography
- **Born**: January 20, 1554
- **Nationality**: Portuguese
- **Known for**: Reigning as King of Portugal and his involvement in the Battle of Alcácer Quibir
- **Field(s)**: Politics, Monarchy

## Contributions
Sebastian of Portugal's reign was marked by his leadership during a critical time in Portuguese history. His involvement in the Battle of Alcácer Quibir in 1578 was a significant event, leading to his disappearance and the subsequent rise of Sebastianism, a cultural and religious movement that believed in his return to save Portugal.

## FAQs
**Who was Sebastian of Portugal?**
Sebastian of Portugal was the King of Portugal from 1557 to 1578, known for his reign and his involvement in the Battle of Alcácer Quibir.

**What is Sebastianism?**
Sebastianism is a Portuguese messianic myth based on the belief that King Sebastian of Portugal will return to save Portugal. This belief emerged after his disappearance at the Battle of Alcácer Quibir in 1578.

**What was the Battle of Alcácer Quibir?**
The Battle of Alcácer Quibir was a significant battle that took place in Morocco in 1578, where King Sebastian of Portugal disappeared. This event had profound implications for Portuguese history and culture.

## Why They Matter
Sebastian of Portugal's reign and his disappearance at the Battle of Alcácer Quibir had a lasting impact on Portuguese history and culture. The rise of Sebastianism, a messianic myth centered on his anticipated return, has influenced Portuguese literature, art, and national identity. His legacy continues to be a significant part of Portugal's cultural heritage.

## Notable For
- Reigning as King of Portugal from 1557 to 1578
- Involvement in the Battle of Alcácer Quibir in 1578
- The rise of Sebastianism, a messianic myth centered on his anticipated return

## Body
### Early Life and Reign
Sebastian of Portugal was born on January 20, 1554. He became the King of Portugal in 1557, succeeding his grandfather, King John III. His reign was marked by significant political and military events, including his involvement in the Battle of Alcácer Quibir.

### Battle of Alcácer Quibir
The Battle of Alcácer Quibir, which took place in Morocco in 1578, was a pivotal event in Sebastian's life. He disappeared during the battle, leading to widespread speculation and the rise of Sebastianism, a messianic myth that believed in his return to save Portugal.

### Sebastianism
Sebastianism is a cultural and religious movement that emerged after Sebastian's disappearance. It is based on the belief that King Sebastian will return to save Portugal. This myth has had a profound impact on Portuguese literature, art, and national identity, influencing various aspects of Portuguese culture.

### Legacy
Sebastian of Portugal's legacy is deeply intertwined with Portuguese history and culture. His reign and the events surrounding his disappearance have left a lasting impact, shaping the national identity and cultural heritage of Portugal. The rise of Sebastianism continues to be a significant part of Portugal's cultural narrative.

## References

1. Integrated Authority File
2. Dictionary of African Biography
3. The Peerage
4. BnF authorities
5. Czech National Authority Database
6. Gran Enciclopèdia Catalana
7. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
8. Virtual International Authority File
9. CERL Thesaurus
10. LIBRIS. 2012
11. HMML Authority File