António Prior of Crato

António Prior of Crato was born to John of Portugal and Maria of Austria. He was a claimant to the Portuguese throne.

António began his early education, which included religious and basic scholarly teachings, preparing him for his future roles.

At the age of 16, António was appointed Prior of Crato, a significant ecclesiastical position, by King John III of Portugal.

António was sent on a diplomatic mission to England, where he met Queen Mary I and negotiated political and religious matters.

Due to political tensions and conflicts with the royal court, António was exiled from Portugal and sought refuge in France.

António's cousin, King Sebastian, died in the Battle of Alcácer Quibir. This event set the stage for the Portuguese succession crisis.

António declared himself King of Portugal, challenging the claims of Philip II of Spain, who also sought the throne.

António's forces were defeated by Spanish troops led by the Duke of Alba at the Battle of Alcântara, ending his claim to the throne.

Following his defeat, António was forced into exile in France, where he continued to gather support for his claim to the throne.

António traveled to England to seek support from Queen Elizabeth I, but his efforts were largely unsuccessful.

António organized a small fleet to invade Portugal, but the attempt failed due to lack of support and resources.

António moved to Brussels, where he continued to live in exile and maintain his claim to the Portuguese throne.

António engaged in diplomatic efforts in Flanders to gain support from local nobles and political figures for his cause.

In his final years, António lived in relative obscurity, still maintaining his claim to the Portuguese throne but with diminishing support.

António Prior of Crato died in Brussels, Belgium, where he had spent his final years in exile.