About

It ended a long period of authoritarian rule by the Estado Novo regime and led to the establishment of a democratic government in the country. The revolution was marked by the use of carnations as a symbol of peace, with soldiers and civilians putting them in the muzzles of their rifles and on their uniforms. The movement was initiated by a group of military officers who were dissatisfied with the regime's involvement in the ongoing Portuguese Colonial War and the economic hardships faced by the population. The revolution began with a military coup and quickly gained support from various sectors of society, including the middle class, students, and even some members of the ruling elite. The government of Prime Minister Marcelo Caetano was overthrown, and General António de Spínola assumed power temporarily before being replaced by a more moderate military officer, General Francisco da Costa Gomes. The new government implemented significant political and social reforms, including the legalization of political parties, the granting of independence to Portugal's African colonies, and the nationalization of key industries. The Carnation Revolution is notable for its peaceful nature and the limited amount of violence during the transition of power. It is regarded as one of the most successful and least violent revolutions in history, inspiring other movements for political change around the world.