Money, Credit and Reform in the Portuguese Imperial State: the writings of D. Rodrigo de Souza Coutinho, 1783-1800

Abstract The article aims to analyse some ideas about money and credit in the writings of the Portuguese statesman D. Rodrigo de Souza Coutinho (1755-1812) in the end of the 18th century, giving emphasis to the Brazilian dimension and to the appropriation and transformation of Smithian ideas. The text presents the reflections produced when Souza Coutinho was ambassador in Turin and after State Secretary of the Overseas Domains and Navy Affairs. It is also discussed the projects to issue paper money and the plans to create credit institutions to promote the colonial economy.