An aspect of modern civilisation. The associative congresses in Portugal (1865-1926)

Abstract

This article focuses on a little-studied expression of the modern repertoire of collective action – the associational congresses. Considering the associational dynamics and European trends, it presents the phenomenon’s periodisation, considering the diffusion of new norms and practices of debate and collective resolution (1865-1885), the diversification of protagonists and topics (1885-1914) and, finally, their opposition in competing or antagonistic political fields (1914-1926), culminating in the military coup of May 28 1926, followed by a sharp decline of associational activity.