The history of Portugal

Abstract:

Part of the Greenwood Histories of Modern Nations series, this book provides an up-to-date history of Portugal covering the political, social, cultural and economic influences that shaped the history of the country. Spanning the period from Portugal's early conception as a nation through its long history, with emphasis on the dramatic period of the last several decades, this volume culminates with the demise of the Salazar dictatorship and the independence of its colonies. The book has a timeline for easy reference to events, brief biographies of important people, lists of monarchs and heads of state, and a bibliographic essay.

In nine chapters the author discusses the geography of Portugal, its prehistoric antecedents, its formation as a nation, and the events that once made it a world leader in exploration, discovery and imperial power; how and why the country was drawn into the orbit of its large neighbour, Spain, lost much of its empire, and yet managed to regain its independence are examined, along with the trials and tribulations encountered on its journey from monarchy to modern republic. The author considers the factors that kept Portugal one of the poorest nations in Europe for most of its existence and the reasons that it is now, leading into the 21st century, closing the economic gap with wealthier nations.

James M. Anderson is Professor Emeritus at the University of Calgary.