May 26, 1926: The Coup That Opened the Door to Salazar's Long Night

The events of May 26, 1926, marked a pivotal moment in Portuguese history, culminating in a military coup that ushered in the long era of Salazarism. On that day, General Gomes da Costa departed Lisbon under the cover of discretion around 6 p.m. He sought refuge at the home of Manuel Múrias, a fervent supporter of the far-right nationalist movement, Integralismo Lusitano.

Shortly after, a former royal household driver transported Gomes da Costa to Braga. Braga was hosting the First National Marian Congress from May 26 to 30. The city's conservative Catholic identity and its appeal to young officers drawn to the ideology of Integralismo Lusitano made it an ideal base for the impending military action, as noted by historian António José Telo.

The next day, the military garrisons in Braga were alive with anticipation for another coup attempt. This action was intended to oust the government, which was once again under the control of the radical elements of the Democratic Party. The coup's success would ultimately pave the way for a prolonged period of authoritarian rule in Portugal.

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Braga was the ideal place for the coup: due to its Catholic conservatism, but also because it was a stronghold of young lieutenants attracted to the ideology of Integralismo Lusitano.