Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Portugal, neutral during WWII, becomes a crossroads for intelligence activities of Allied and Axis op-
eratives. Salazar works both sides, selling tungsten to the Nazis while allowing Britain use of air-
fields.
1961
The last vestiges of Portugal's empire begin to crumble as India seizes Goa. Independence move-
ments are underway in the former African colonies of Angola, Mozambique and Guinea-Bissau.
1974
Army officers overthrow Salazar's successor in the Revolution of the Carnations. Portugal veers to
the left, and communists and moderates struggle for power in the unstable country.
1986
In a narrow second-round victory, Mário Soares is elected president of Portugal, becoming its first ci-
vilian head of state in 60 years. The same year, Portugal joins the EC along with Spain.
1998
José Saramago receives the Nobel Prize in Literature for his darkly humorous tales about ordinary
characters facing fantastical obstacles. A lifelong communist, his work was condemned by the
church.
1998
Lisbon hosts Expo 98, showcasing new developments, including Santiago Calatrava's cutting-edge
train station, Europe's largest oceanarium and its longest bridge (Ponte de Vasco da Gama).
2004
Hosting the European Football Championship, Portugal makes it to the final only to be defeated in an
agonising loss to Greece. Over €600 million is spent remodelling and constructing stadiums.
2013
Fed up with rising unemployment, soaring taxes and a proposed €4 billion in government spending
cuts, 1.5 million protestors take to the streets of Portugal.
