Salazarisme & fascime

Abstract

This article reviews Salazarisme & fascisme by Yves Léonard, which examines the Estado Novo regime in Portugal under António de Oliveira Salazar, from 1933 to 1974. The book explores the ideological roots, political structure and distinctiveness of Salazar’s rule, highlighting his complex personality and his economic reforms that managed to rescue Portugal from financial collapse. Léonard contrasts Salazar’s regime with other European fascist dictatorships, noting differences in the relationship between the state and the political party, corporatism, and foreign policy. Thus, the aim of this article is to analyze the key themes presented by Léonard, shedding light on Salazar’s unique position in the context of European authoritarianism.