25/04/2024
🌸 The Carnation Revolution - A Tale of Freedom and Change
On April 25, 1974, Portugal witnessed a momentous event that would alter its course forever. Known as the Carnation Revolution (or Revolução dos Cravos in Portuguese), this peaceful military coup brought down more than 40 years of dictatorship and marked the end of Europe’s longest-surviving authoritarian regime.
1. The Estado Novo Regime
The Carnation Revolution ended the authoritarian rule of the Estado Novo regime. Installed in 1933, this regime was inspired by right-wing conservative, fascist, and anti-democratic ideologies. Led by Antonio de Oliveira Salazar, it promoted conservative ideals of “God, patriotism, and family.” The fight against communism and defence of Portuguese colonialism were central tenets of this dictatorship.
2. Music as the Catalyst
The revolution began with music on the radio. At 10:55 pm on April 24, E Depois do Adeus by Paulo de Carvalho played, signalling the impending change. Then, at 00:25 on April 25, Grândola, Vila Morena by José Afonso aired on Radio Renascença. This song served as a secret signal to revolutionaries, urging them to occupy strategic points across the country. Within hours, the Estado Novo was overthrown.
3. The End of Portuguese Colonialism
One of the driving forces behind the Carnation Revolution was the desire to end the Portuguese Colonial War. This inhumane conflict had lasted for over 13 years, from 1961 to 1974. Portugal’s military, under the Estado Novo, faced nationalist movements in its African colonies. The war resulted in countless lives lost and international sanctions. After the revolution, decolonization occurred swiftly, granting independence to countries like Guinea-Bissau, Cape Verde, Mozambique, Angola, and even East Timor.
4. The Symbolic Carnations
The revolution got its name from the fact that almost no shots were fired. As the population took to the streets to celebrate the end of the dictatorship, restaurant worker Celeste Caeiro offered carnations to the soldiers. Other demonstrators followed suit, placing carnations in the muzzles of guns and on soldiers’ uniforms. The image of these red flowers became synonymous with freedom and hope.
5. Celebrating Freedom
In Portugal, April 25 is celebrated as Freedom Day (Dia da Liberdade). It commemorates the Carnation Revolution and the birth of democracy. The 25th of April Bridge, once named after Salazar, now stands as a testament to this historic event.
🇵🇹 Let us remember the courage of those who stood up for liberty, and may the spirit of the Carnation Revolution continue to inspire generations.
