Portuguese Prime Minister Assassination in Coup
October 19th, 1921
October 19th, 1921

How Long Ago?
103 years, 4 months, 24 days ago
Location
Lisbon, Portugal
Category
Politics & Government
People
- General Gomes da Costa
- António Granjo
- General José Afonso
- Major Pires de Lima
Links & References
Tags
Portuguese Prime Minister Assassination in Coup
In an orchestrated coup, Portuguese Prime Minister António Granjo and several officials were murdered by military rebels in a chaotic power struggle. The violence erupted as factions within the military sought to overthrow the established government, which they viewed as corrupt and ineffective. The coup, termed the 'Bloody Night,' took place in Lisbon, causing national unrest and upheaval. Granjo was a significant political figure, noted for his attempts to stabilize Portugal amidst its turbulent political landscape.
António Granjo was Prime Minister before his assassination.
The coup was called 'Bloody Night' due to its violence.
Military factions sought change through violent measures.
The incident led to further political instability in Portugal.
What Happened?
António Granjo, the Prime Minister of Portugal, was assassinated during a military coup that was one of the more volatile episodes in the tumultuous political climate of early 20th-century Portugal. The coup, known as the 'Bloody Night,' was fueled by discontent among military factions, who were frustrated with the government's inability to address the national crisis marked by economic instability and political corruption. Though Granjo had been in power for a short period, his leadership was marked by efforts to restore order in a country beleaguered by political factions and militaristic dissent. The rebels were emboldened by widespread sentiment that the political system was in dire need of change, and they believed they could bring about that change through violent means. The assassination occurred amidst the chaos of the coup when soldiers marched into the streets of Lisbon, capturing and executing key government officials. This episode of violence was emblematic of the broader disintegration of authority in Portugal, where multiple governments had risen and fallen within a few years, making the political environment highly unstable. The events of that night not only took Granjo’s life but also served as a catalyst for continuing political turmoil in the country, as it led to a series of military dictatorships and further revolutions in an attempt to reshape the political landscape of Portugal.In response to the coup, Portugal faced increasing international scrutiny and domestic unrest, impacting its political trajectory for years to come. The atmosphere of fear and instability that followed would influence political movements and the eventual rise of authoritarian regimes during the period leading up to World War II.
Why Does it Matter?
The assassination of António Granjo marked a significant moment in Portuguese history, highlighting the fragility of democratic governance in the face of military influence. It is interesting because it underscores how political instability can lead to violent power struggles and reshape a nation's trajectory. The event served as a precursor to future coups and authoritarian regimes in Portugal, ultimately contributing to a legacy of political upheaval that would characterize the nation throughout the 20th century.
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