Dias led a military regiment composed of enslaved and freed slaves and was known as "Governor of the Blacks" in 1636. Dias defended
Portuguese settlements from
Dutch forces and played important roles in the
First and
Second Battles of Guararapes, in the defense of
Salvador, Bahia, and to restore
Portuguese control over
Pernambuco. in 1639. while others contend that Dias never received this title and requested knighthood be granted to the men who marry his daughters. Dias traveled to Portugal and petitioned the crown to grant his requests. Dias requested the enslaved blacks who served with him be freed should have "all the rights and privileges of white units". Dias also requested to be compensated for his efforts and allowed to serve as long as he wished. ==See also==