The Carnation Revolution, which unfolded on April 25, 1974, was a military coup that successfully overthrew Portugal's Estado Novo regime, an authoritarian regime under Prime Minister Marcello Caetano. The coup was spearheaded by members of the Armed Forces Movement (Movimento das Forças Armadas, MFA), who sought to bring an end to years of authoritarian rule, characterized by censorship, political repression, and colonial wars in Africa. The coup's actual execution was remarkably swift and, notably, non-violent. Soldiers took to the streets of Lisbon with little resistance, organizing their efforts under the banner of a popular uprising supported by various segments of Portuguese society, including students and workers.As troops moved through the city, they handed out red carnations to civilians, creating a peaceful atmosphere. This symbolic gesture contributed to the revolution's name and signified a break from violence and oppression. Within a matter of hours, the Portuguese military had successfully ousted the Estado Novo's leadership, paving the way for a provisional government, which initiated a series of reforms intended to establish democracy in Portugal. The effective coordination and the absence of bloodshed highlighted the dissatisfaction endured by the populace and the military's resolution to foster change.In the aftermath, the revolution led to a complex transition toward democracy, which involved drafting a new constitution and organizing free elections. It marked the end of colonial rule in Africa, with Portugal granting independence to several African nations, fundamentally reshaping the geopolitical landscape of not only Portugal but also its former colonies. This peaceful coup remains a powerful example of how coordinated political action from military and civilian sectors can lead to transformative change in governance.