Óscar Carmona, Portuguese field marshal and politician, 11th President of Portugal (b. 1869)

António Óscar de Fragoso Carmona (pronounced [ɐ̃ˈtɔniu ˈɔʃkaɾ fɾɐˈɡozu kaɾˈmonɐ]), born on 24 November 1869 and passing away on 18 April 1951, was a prominent figure in 20th-century Portuguese history. A distinguished Portuguese Army officer and an influential politician, Carmona's career spanned several critical moments, culminating in his long tenure as Portugal's President.

The Path to Power: The 28 May 1926 Coup

Carmona's ascent to national prominence began amidst the profound political instability that characterized the First Portuguese Republic. Following years of parliamentary fragmentation, economic woes, and social unrest, a military coup d'état on 28 May 1926 brought an end to the tumultuous republican experiment. As a seasoned general, Carmona played a significant role in this military uprising, which sought to restore order and stability to the nation.

Immediately after the coup, Carmona quickly rose through the ranks of the new military government. He initially served as Prime Minister of Portugal from 1926 to 1928, concurrently holding critical ministerial portfolios. In 1926, he briefly served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, demonstrating his involvement in the nascent regime's external relations. His prior experience as Minister of War in late 1923 and again in 1926 underscored his deep military roots and his command within the armed forces, solidifying his position as a key leader in the new political landscape.

A Quarter-Century at the Helm: The Presidency

In November 1926, just months after the coup, António Óscar de Fragoso Carmona assumed the office of the 11th President of Portugal. This marked the beginning of an extraordinary and lengthy period in Portuguese history, as Carmona would remain president until his death on 18 April 1951, making him the longest-serving head of state in Portugal's modern era.

Initially, Carmona's presidency was characterized by a military dictatorship, known as the Ditadura Nacional (National Dictatorship). However, his political legacy is intrinsically linked to the rise of António de Oliveira Salazar. Recognizing the dire financial state of the country, Carmona appointed Salazar as Minister of Finance in 1928, granting him unprecedented powers to stabilize the economy. This decision proved to be a turning point. Salazar gradually consolidated power, eventually establishing the authoritarian Estado Novo (New State) regime in 1933. While Carmona remained the titular head of state, serving as president for successive terms, Salazar effectively became the de facto ruler, dominating Portuguese political life for decades.

Carmona’s role during the Estado Novo transitioned to that of a figurehead, endorsing Salazar’s policies and providing a semblance of continuity and legitimacy to the regime. His military background and initial leadership of the 1926 coup lent credibility to the new order, particularly among the armed forces. Despite his diminished executive power, Carmona's enduring presence as president symbolized stability and the nation's departure from the chaos of the First Republic.

Frequently Asked Questions about António Óscar Carmona

Who was António Óscar Carmona?

António Óscar Carmona was a Portuguese Army officer and politician who served as Prime Minister and, most notably, as the 11th President of Portugal from 1926 until his death in 1951.

When did Carmona become President of Portugal?

He became the 11th President of Portugal in November 1926, following the military coup d'état earlier that year.

What was Carmona's role in the 28 May 1926 coup?

As a general in the Portuguese Army, Carmona was a key figure in the military coup that overthrew the First Portuguese Republic, leading to the establishment of the Ditadura Nacional.

What was Carmona's relationship with António de Oliveira Salazar?

Carmona appointed Salazar as Minister of Finance in 1928, paving the way for Salazar's rise to power and the establishment of the Estado Novo. While Carmona remained president, Salazar became the de facto ruler, with Carmona largely serving as a figurehead.

How long did António Óscar Carmona serve as President?

He served as President for nearly 25 years, from November 1926 until his death on 18 April 1951, making him Portugal's longest-serving president in modern history.