The Portuguese model of poor-relief and the dynamics of the Holy Houses of Mercy in Portuguese America

Throughout the modern age, the Holy Houses of Mercy (Santas Casas de Misericordia) were the main poor-relief institutions of the Portuguese empire. Based on the Lisbon model, similar establishments were organized, aiming to exercise charity according to the 14 works of mercy. However, despite of an ideal of universalism, the Misericordias were very different. This article discusses the institutional dynamics of the empire, focusing on the example of Portuguese America between 16th century and early 19th century.