Anatomia de um golpe de Estado fracassado: 11 de março de 1975

Abstract

The military operation launched by elements close to General Spínola in the morning of 11 March 1975 contributed to the radicalization of the Portuguese revolutionary process and the strengthening of the Esquerda Militar [Military Left] within the Movimento das Forças Armadas [Armed Forces Movement]. However, a number of aspects remain to be clarified, particularly in what regards the degree of involvement of some protagonists and the main objectives of the operation. This article analyses the «11 de março» taking in account the complex network of military and political alliances formed during the previous months, the reactions triggered by the rumor of an eminent «Easter Killing» and the several protagonists of the aborted military coup that unfolded on that day.

Keywords

• portuguese revolution
• Armed Forces Movement
• 11 March