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By José Carlos Palma
Eighteen months after the Carnation Revolution of April 25, 1974, Portugal found itself on the brink of a violent internal conflict. The revolutionary period brought rapid political transformation, yet deep ideological fractures emerged inside both society and the Armed Forces. By November 1975, the nation stood dangerously close to civil war as opposing military factions prepared for confrontation.
Throughout 1975, growing instability defined daily life in Portugal. The intense political climate of the “Hot Summer” escalated into open conflict when far-left military units attempted to seize strategic points across Lisbon. In response, the so-called military right launched a counter-operation based at the Commandos Regiment in Amadora. The government declared a state of siege as tensions reached their peak.
Otelo Saraiva de Carvalho, head of COPCON, feared losing influence during the shifting political landscape. He armed thousands of left-wing militants with G-3 rifles in an attempt to preserve revolutionary momentum. Opposing him were Ramalho Eanes and Jaime Neves, leaders of the more moderate and conservative sectors of the Armed Forces. They viewed Otelo’s actions as a direct threat to Portugal’s stability and democracy. Their counter-coup would ultimately determine the country’s future direction.
Ideological Turmoil After the Carnation Revolution
The dramatic events of November 25 were rooted in disputes that erupted after the fall of the Estado Novo regime. The revolution united the military at first, but the consensus ended quickly. Portugal’s political path became the subject of intense debate between those who favored a radical left turn and those who sought a more moderate democratic transition.
Several factors deepened these divisions. Sweeping nationalizations and ambitious social reforms created mistrust among conservative groups and contributed to fears of a communist takeover. Meanwhile, disagreements intensified regarding the balance of power between the civilian government and the military. Rival factions competed for influence in the turbulent months following the revolution.
Many moderates feared that Portugal might align itself too closely with the Soviet bloc. This anxiety increased political polarization and pushed the country toward confrontation. The worsening situation left the Armed Forces split between radical elements and officers committed to preventing an extremist shift.
A Pivotal Turning Point for Democracy
The military intervention on November 25, led by Ramalho Eanes and supported by units such as the Commandos under Jaime Neves, halted the escalation. The operation restored control, neutralized the attempted uprising, and prevented the crisis from spiraling into widespread violence. The outcome ended the revolutionary phase known as the PREC, marking the beginning of Portugal’s democratic consolidation.
Many historians view November 25, 1975, as a decisive moment. It closed the chapter of internal military confrontation and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to pluralistic democracy. Portugal emerged from the crisis more stable and better positioned to build the democratic institutions that would define its future.