João Manuel, Prince of Portugal, was born on March 3, 1537, in Portugal. He was the eighth son of King John III of Portugal and was set to inherit the throne if it weren't for his untimely death. João Manuel faced a challenging childhood as he watched his four younger siblings succumb to illness and pass away at a young age. Unfortunately, he too was plagued with poor health throughout his youth.
Despite his health struggles, João Manuel found love in the arms of his first cousin, Joanna of Spain. The two were married and were eager to start a family of their own. Tragically, João Manuel passed away before the birth of his son, who would go on to become King Sebastian I of Portugal.
João Manuel's premature death left a void in the royal succession of Portugal. He was thwarted from ascending to the throne, leaving a legacy of what could have been. His absence paved the way for his son to take the reins as the next ruler of Portugal.
João Manuel's life was cut short, yet his impact on Portuguese history remains significant. He may not have had the chance to rule, but his legacy lives on through his descendants and the enduring memory of what could have been.