The Alvor Agreement represented a significant turning point in Angola's struggle for independence after nearly fourteen years of conflict. Following the Carnation Revolution in Portugal, which overthrew the authoritarian regime, Portuguese officials sought to decolonize their African territories. In January of 1975, representatives of the three primary Angolan liberation movements—MPLA (People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola), UNITA (National Union for the Total Independence of Angola), and FNLA (National Liberation Front of Angola)—gathered in Alvor, Portugal. After extensive negotiations and international mediation, they reached an agreement with the Portuguese government that recognized Angola's independence effective November 11, 1975.

The Alvor Agreement outlined the establishment of a transitional government and set the stage for democratic elections. However, tensions persisted among the different factions as each movement aimed to assert its dominance, leading to a power vacuum and eventual civil conflict. The agreement did not provide a clear resolution to the underlying ideological and ethnic divisions within Angola, foreshadowing further unrest in the post-independence era. As a result, the anticipated harmony was quickly overshadowed by discord and violence.

Ultimately, the Alvor Agreement is marked by its failure to secure lasting peace in Angola, as the nation descended into civil war shortly after gaining independence. The subsequent conflict would last several decades, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis within the country and leaving a profound impact on its political landscape.