The Party System of Portugal

Abstract

Prior to the relatively bloodless Carnation Revolution of 25 April 1974, which initiated the so-called {\textquotedblleft}third wave{\textquotedblright} of worldwide democratization, free and fair elections with universal suffrage and a competitive party system were unheard of in Portugal. Portugal{\textquoteright}s transition was initiated by a coup led by junior officers (Linz/Stepan 1996: chapter 7). Whilst the coup may have been planned as a political revolution to liberalize society, overthrow a decrepit regime and end the interminable colonial wars, it is important to note that the military remained committed to holding constituent elections one year from the date of coup. These elections were held on schedule on 25 April 1975, and obtained a 92 percent turnout. One year later, on 25 April 1976, the first constitutional parliamentary elections took place.