After schooling Kopke joined the army. In 1828 he went into exile, after having participated in the Liberal revolt in Porto on 16 May of that year. While in exile in France and England, he used the library at Rennes and collaborated with a local newspaper in Plymouth. Back in Portugal, he commanded several batteries during the Siege of Porto (1832-1833) and distinguished himself at the Battle of Asseiceira, being promoted to become Captain of the IV Artillery.