Revisiting Portugal's Democratic Struggles: The Impact of November 25, 1975

A Historical Overview

On the early morning of November 25, 1975, a significant event unfolded in Lisbon that would mark a turning point in Portuguese history. A group of approximately 50 paratroopers from Tancos stormed the Monsanto Air Base. In the following hours, additional paratrooper detachments took control of various military installations, including the air bases of Tancos, Monte Real, and Montijo, the Air Force Headquarters, and the First Air Region Headquarters.

To escalate the rebellion, the Lisbon Artillery Regiment, known as Ralis, seized strategic positions along the North Highway, took control of Portela Airport, and occupied the General Depot of War Material in Beirolas. The Military Administration School even took over the RTP (Portuguese Radio and Television).

Just five days prior, the President of Portugal, Francisco Costa Gomes, had foreseen the imminence of a military coup and made a dramatic appeal to the nation, stating, "Civil War only brings disaster, ruin, hatred, and sacrifices to this people, who suffered for thirteen and a half years in an unjust Colonial War." That morning, his worst fears were beginning to materialize.

Reflection on the Current Political Climate

Almost 50 years later, the political right in Portugal is attempting to revisit history and reopen healed wounds from that tumultuous period. The victory of moderate forces back in the day effectively ended the PREC (Process of Revolutionary Change), quelling far-right extremism and establishing a parliamentary democracy. The current political climate raises questions about the ongoing struggle between historical narratives and contemporary political agendas.