Branco (Conselheiro Luiz de Freitas)

He was born in Funchal on August 19, 1819, and excelled at our lyceum and the University of Coimbra, where he obtained high grades, graduating in law in 1852. He established himself as a lawyer in Funchal and held various important positions here. He was a deputy for Madeira in the legislative sessions from 1858 to 1859, from 1860 to 1861, from 1861 to 1864, in 1865, from 1865 to 1868, and from 1882 to 1884. He distinguished himself in the courts as a distinguished parliamentarian, being the rapporteur for several bills. In 1862, he was appointed director general of ecclesiastical affairs in the Ministry of Justice, a position he held until his death. He carried out important public service commissions and enjoyed great influence and prestige in politics. He had several national and foreign decorations. This distinguished Madeiran passed away in Lisbon at the beginning of November 1884.