Military Model Scene

Title: Carnation Revolution Vol 2
Author: Jose Augusto Matos and Zelia Oliveira
Publisher: Helion & Co
ISBN: 978-1-894514-92-4

Volume 2, Coup in Portugal, April 1974, number 39 in the Europe at War series from Helion & Co. A 66-page soft-cover book.
This one starts at the beginning of 1974, with Portugal controlled by a dictator, and with serious questions about what to do with Portuguese territories in Africa. Fuelled by the publication of a book from General Spinola, one of the two top generals in the country. The situation in the country is set out, and the growing feelings within the Portuguese military that they needed to leave their African territories to themselves, while those in control of the country disagreed. The book tells us of the story of the growth of a brewing rebellion, particularly among officers in the Portuguese army. An attempted coup on the 16th April was started but soon abandoned. It was a different story on 25th April 1974 when a revolution was successfully carried out The complexities of how they managed it is set out in detail. With tanks, armoured cars and troops on the streets in Lisbon it is remarkable how they managed it without any great loss of life.
The complexities of a revolution without resorting to violence makes for interesting reading. As well as the text and a good selection of archive images, this was a story I knew little about beforehand. In the centre of the book is the usual selection of colour artwork profiles, along with some colour photos. The vehicles are an interesting mix, with various French AFVs, the Shorland Mk III and Chimite (a Portuguese built version of the Cadillac Gage V-100 Commando), some aircraft and a selection of uniforms. It turned out to be welcomed by the Portuguese people. I enjoyed reading the story of an almost bloodless European revolution which I knew little to nothing about beforehand.
Thanks to Helion & Co for the review copy.

Robin