Francisco Gomez De Avellar
Francisco Gomez De Avellar [1]
a Portuguese prelate and statesman, was born Jan. 17,-1739, in the vicinity. of Alhandra, where his parents dwelt in humble circumstances. At the age of fourteen' he was placed under the care of his uncle, a vicar, and distinguished himself by the rapid progress he made in his studies. He accompanied cardinal Pacca to Rome, where he obtained the favor of Pius VI. He was appointed by Maria I to the bishopric of Algarve, and was consecrated April 26, 1789. He performed well the duties of his office, and conferred large benefits upon the people. During the French invasion, he displayed such great prudence and energy that in 1808, at the. proclamation of independence, nearly the entire government of this province was given to him by the regent.- He was governor and captain- general of Algarve until his death, which occurred Dec. 15,1816. See Hoefer, Nouv. Biog. Generale, s.v.
