António de Oliveira Salazar: The man who kept Portugal in a dictatorship for 41 years
António de Oliveira Salazar was a Portuguese politician and economist who served as the country's Prime Minister from 1932 to 1968. As the founder and leader of the Estado Novo (New State), he established an authoritarian and corporatist regime that governed Portugal from 1933 until its overthrow in 1974.
Salazar's political career began in 1926 when he was appointed Minister of Finance under a military-led government. His reputation for financial prudence and economic stabilization earned him widespread recognition. In 1932, he ascended to the position of Prime Minister, solidifying his authority and shaping Portugal's political landscape for nearly four decades.
The Estado Novo Regime
Under Salazar's leadership, Portugal transitioned into an authoritarian state marked by strict political control, censorship, and opposition repression. The Estado Novo emphasised nationalism and corporatism, seeking to maintain social order through a hierarchical and state-controlled economic structure. A central tenet of his governance was "Portugalidade," a policy promoting the country's cultural and historical identity while reinforcing colonial rule over African and Asian territories.
He prioritised economic stability, advocating for fiscal conservatism and protectionist policies. His administration implemented a series of infrastructure projects, state-owned enterprises, and agricultural reforms aimed at fostering self-sufficiency. While these measures contributed to economic growth and stability, critics argue that his rigid economic policies stifled modernization and limited Portugal's industrial development.
Foreign Policy and International Relations
During World War II, Salazar maintained Portugal’s official neutrality, although his government maintained economic and diplomatic ties with the Allies and Axis powers. Post-war, Portugal became a founding member of NATO and later joined the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), reflecting its strategic position in Western geopolitics. However, Salazar's staunch defence of Portugal’s colonial empire increasingly isolated the country on the international stage, particularly during the decolonization movements of the mid-20th century.
Legacy and Impact
Salazar’s legacy remains a subject of debate. Supporters credit him with ensuring economic stability and preventing Portugal from being drawn into major conflicts. However, his authoritarian rule, suppression of civil liberties, and resistance to democratic reforms have been widely condemned. The Estado Novo persisted until 1974 when the Carnation Revolution led to its collapse and the establishment of a democratic government.
Following a stroke in 1968 that left him incapacitated, Salazar was replaced as Prime Minister by Marcelo Caetano. He remained unaware of his removal from office until his death on July 27, 1970.
