The Ungodly Inspectress: Monopoly and Womanhood in the Beginning of Pombal’s Reign

Abstract

This article discusses the case of Lady Catharina Sophia van Zeller, a Portuguese woman of Dutch descent, who married a Dutch entrepreneur, António Cremer. Following her husband’s death, she took over his position as manufacturer of gunpowder during the Joanine administration. After twenty years of manufacturing gunpowder, she saw her position challenged at the time Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, Marquês de Pombal, gained power. The article will demonstrate the empowerment and challenges as a widow in a changing political climate.