Europe's Forgotten Dictatorships

Portugal is the scene of Europe's longest right-wing dictatorship. Until 1974 the Estado Novo the "New State" ruled the country for over four decades. At its top: Antonio de Oliveira Salazar.

Under the command of Colonel Georgios Papadopoulos the military forces arbitrarily implement a NATO coup plan developed for Greece in the event of a Communist overthrow. In just one night the military is able to seize power.