On October 5, 1910, Portugal experienced one of the most significant moments in its history – the Establishment of the Republic. This day symbolizes the end of the monarchy and the transition to a republic, a profound change that transformed the country forever. Even though it’s been over 100 years, it’s essential to remember what happened and the facts that helped shape our nation. Here are four key moments from this revolution that marked the beginning of the Portuguese Republic.

1 – The Revolution Began Before October 5

Although we celebrate the establishment of the republic on October 5, the revolution didn’t exactly start on that day. The military movements that led to the end of the monarchy began on the night of October 3-4. In fact, dissatisfaction with the Portuguese crown had been growing for several years, especially due to the economic and social problems the country was facing. On the morning of October 4, the rebels began to confront the monarchist forces, culminating in the official proclamation of the Republic on the morning of October 5, from the balconies of the Lisbon City Hall.

2 – The Exile of the Last King

The end of the monarchy also meant the end of the reign of Manuel II, the last king of Portugal. When it became clear that the revolution was successful, the young king, only 20 years old, decided to flee to avoid an escalation of violence. On the afternoon of October 5, Manuel II embarked on the Ericeira bound for Gibraltar, accompanied by his mother, Queen Amélia. The royal family eventually took refuge in the United Kingdom, where the king lived in exile until his death in 1932. Interestingly, Manuel II always maintained a cordial relationship with the Portuguese people, despite his deposition.

3 – The Creation of a Provisional Government

On the same day, October 5, the Provisional Government of the Portuguese Republic was announced, with the mission of leading the country until a new constitution was drafted. This government, led by Teófilo Braga, aimed to stabilize the country after the revolution and implement the first republican reforms. Among its measures, the secularization of the state and the introduction of new social and economic policies stand out. The Provisional Government remained in office until the approval of the 1911 Constitution, which took place on August 18, marking the end of one of the most turbulent periods in our history.

4 – New Symbols for a New Era

The end of the monarchy brought with it the need to create new national symbols that represented the political and social change. To mark the beginning of the Republic, it was decided to replace the old national anthem and flag. ‘A Portuguesa’, which had been composed during the crisis with the United Kingdom in 1890, was adopted as the new national anthem. As for the flag, a new version with the colors green and red was chosen, symbolizing hope and the blood of those who fought for freedom, respectively. In the center of the flag is the armillary sphere, a symbol of Portugal’s maritime conquests, and the national coat of arms, which refers to the country’s history.

Conclusion

October 5, 1910, marked the beginning of a new era in Portugal, a moment of great change and hope for a better future. The transition from monarchy to republic brought challenges, but also paved the way for the development of a more modern and democratic country. Remembering this day is celebrating the struggle for freedom and self-determination of the Portuguese people, who decided to take their nation’s destiny into their own hands.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What was the main reason for the establishment of the republic in Portugal?

A: The main reason was the growing dissatisfaction with the Portuguese monarchy, especially due to economic and social problems.

Q: Who was the last king of Portugal?

A: Manuel II was the last king of Portugal, who ruled until his exile in 1910.

Q: What is the name of the national anthem of Portugal?

A: The national anthem of Portugal is ‘A Portuguesa’.