Historical Encyclopedia
The government system of Portugal has undergone numerous changes throughout its long history, from a feudal state to a modern republic. The history of Portugal is a story of the struggle for independence, the development of political institutions, and the evolution of governance, making the country one of the most unique in Europe. In this article, we will explore the main stages in the evolution of the government system of Portugal and the key moments that defined its modern political structure.
The history of Portugal as an independent state begins in the 12th century. In 1139, Afonso I, also known as Afonso Henriques, was proclaimed King of Portugal after liberating the territory from the Moors. The creation of Portugal as a separate kingdom was the result of the gradual Christianization and the reconquista, the liberation of territories on the Iberian Peninsula from Muslims.
The first centuries of Portugal's existence as an independent kingdom were marked by a monarchy, where central power was concentrated in the hands of the king. The system of governance was feudal, and the relationships between the king and the nobility were based on the principles of vassalage.
Over the following centuries, Portugal continued to develop as a monarchy, with the role of the king and the royal court remaining central to political life. From the 13th century, the monarchy began to strengthen, and the power of the kings gradually became more absolute. In the 14th and 15th centuries, Portugal experienced a flourishing period, becoming one of the leading maritime powers, thanks to the expeditions of great navigators such as Vasco da Gama and Afonso de Albuquerque.
However, despite economic success and the expansion of influence, the system of governance remained authoritarian. The principles of absolute monarchy were characteristic of the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance, when the power of the king was not limited by legislative or executive institutions. During this time, the gradual centralization of power also began, which helped to strengthen royal authority in various parts of the country.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, Portugal faced internal and external problems. The dynastic crisis in the early 17th century, caused by the death of the last king from the Avis dynasty, led to a temporary cessation of independence. In 1580, Portugal was absorbed by Spain as a result of the crisis and the coronation of Philip II. Portugal lost its independence, which had a profound impact on its political system.
However, in 1640, Portugal regained independence when a revolt against Spanish rule led to the restoration of the Braganza dynasty and the return of the country to the status of an independent state. This event marked the beginning of a long period of political instability, during which Portugal faced economic difficulties and political struggles for power.
In the 18th century, Portugal experienced a period of stability under the rule of the Braganza dynasty, but the central power of the king still remained strong and absolute. The era of King Joseph I (1750-1777) and his chief minister, the Marquis of Pombal, was marked by reforms aimed at strengthening the monarchy, developing the economy, and modernizing the country.
The Marquis of Pombal actively implemented reforms in education, the economy, as well as in the judicial and administrative spheres. His actions led to a reduction in the influence of the Catholic Church and the aristocracy on state affairs, as well as contributed to the development of trade and industry. However, the strong centralization of power and the authoritarian style of governance caused discontent among parts of the population, leading to his resignation after the death of King Joseph I.
The 19th century became a time of profound political change, as Portugal underwent several revolutions, transitioning from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional one. In 1820, a revolution took place in Portugal, resulting in the adoption of the first constitution. Constitutionalism in Portugal gradually strengthened, despite internal conflicts and clashes between supporters of different political movements.
In 1828, after the death of King John VI, a civil war broke out between the supporters of Miguel, who claimed the throne, and the liberals who supported constitutional governance. The war ended with the victory of the liberals in 1834, and from that moment, Portugal established a constitutional monarchy with the creation of a parliament.
Subsequently, the country experienced periods of political instability and frequent changes of government, accompanied by the development of political parties and ideological movements. The liberal reforms led to significant changes in the social and economic life of the country, although the monarchy continued to exist, albeit in a limited form.
In the early 20th century, protests against the monarchy and its inability to address economic and social problems intensified in Portugal. In 1910, a revolution took place, resulting in the overthrow of the monarchy and the proclamation of the Portuguese Republic. In the early years of the republic's existence, the country faced political instability, frequent changes of governments, and economic difficulties.
In 1926, a military coup led to the establishment of a dictatorial regime under António de Salazar. He became the head of the authoritarian government, which lasted until 1974. Salazar's regime aimed at strict centralization of power, control over the economy, and suppression of political opposition.
However, in 1974, the Carnation Revolution occurred, leading to the overthrow of the dictatorship and the establishment of a democratic republic. Portugal made the transition from authoritarian rule to a parliamentary republic, marking the beginning of a new phase in its political life.
Modern Portugal is a parliamentary republic with democratic institutions based on the principles of freedom, equality, and human rights. The Constitution of Portugal, adopted in 1976, establishes the main principles of the state structure, guarantees civil rights and freedoms, and delineates the separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
The President of Portugal is the head of state and is elected for a five-year term; however, his powers are largely ceremonial. The executive power is exercised by the government, headed by the Prime Minister, who is appointed by the president but depends on the parliamentary majority. Portugal has a bicameral parliament, consisting of the Assembleia da República (parliament) and the Senate.
The political party system in Portugal is diverse, with major parties representing a spectrum from left to right ideologies. Portugal actively participates in international organizations, including the European Union, NATO, and the UN, influencing its domestic and foreign policies.
The evolution of the government system of Portugal from a feudal monarchy to a modern parliamentary republic is an example of political transformation based on significant social and economic changes. Portugal has experienced numerous crises and revolutions, yet it has always found a path to stability and democratic reforms. Today, the country is one of the most stable democracies in Europe, with developed institutions and active participation in international politics.