CARNATION REVOLUTION Meaning and
Definition
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The Carnation Revolution refers to a historic and peaceful military coup that took place in Portugal on April 25, 1974. The coup led to the overthrow of the authoritarian Estado Novo regime that had been ruling the country since 1933, and brought an end to nearly five decades of dictatorship.
The name "Carnation Revolution" derives from the countless red carnations that were distributed among the population and placed in the muzzles of rifles carried by the military during the revolution, symbolizing non-violence and peace.
The main catalyst for the revolution was the dissatisfaction and frustration of the Portuguese population with the Estado Novo regime, which was marked by censorship, economic stagnation, and ongoing colonial wars in Angola, Mozambique, and Guinea-Bissau. The coup was carefully planned and executed by a group of left-wing military officers who sought to establish a democratic government and bring an end to the ongoing conflicts in the Portuguese colonies.
The Carnation Revolution resulted in a swift and relatively bloodless transition of power, leading to the establishment of a democratic government in Portugal. This revolution is significant not only for the historic changes it brought about in Portugal but also for its impact on other authoritarian regimes around the world. It served as an inspiration for numerous anti-dictatorship movements and contributed to the downfall of various oppressive regimes in other countries, notably in Southern Europe and Latin America.
Etymology of CARNATION REVOLUTION
The word "carnation revolution" refers to the military-led revolution that took place in Portugal on April 25, 1974. The event gets its name from the widespread distribution of carnations to the population by the military personnel during the revolution.
The term "carnation" itself comes from the Latin word "carnis" which means "flesh" or "meat". The flower got its name due to the color similarity with the natural color of a meaty complexion. The name "carnation revolution" highlights this connection, as it symbolizes both the peaceful nature of the revolution and the distribution of the flowers as an act of solidarity.
The revolution aimed to end the dictatorial regime of Estado Novo, and it brought about significant political changes in Portugal, leading to the establishment of a democratic government.
