Portugal Contemporaneo, Vol. 2 (of 2)

A historical account written in the late 19th century. The work spans the tumultuous period of liberal anarchy in Portugal from 1834 to 1839, detailing the political upheavals and shifts in government following the civil war. The author explores themes of political factionalism, the rise and fall of leadership, and the societal impact of these changes, providing a critical examination of the political landscape of contemporary Portugal. The opening of the book sets the stage for a detailed discussion of the new political climate following the regency of D. Pedro, showcasing the initial session of the parliament in 1834. Oliveira Martins introduces key political figures such as Manuel Passos, who emerges as a prominent voice against the existing government while advocating for the restoration of civil liberties and accurate representation of the people's will. The text reveals a chaotic landscape where political conflicts manifest through legal disputes and public dissent, foreshadowing the struggles inherent in establishing a new liberal order amid the remnants of the old regime.