Colonial Act

Portugal [1930]

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June 24, 2026

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The Colonial Act of 1930 was a significant policy enacted by Portugal under the authoritarian regime of António de Oliveira Salazar. As minister of colonies in 1930, Salazar prepared this act, which assimilated the administration of Portugal's overseas territories into his centralized system. This move was part of Salazar's broader vision for his "New State" (Estado Novo), which aimed to establish an "unitary, corporatist republic". The regime emphasized order and control, implementing censorship and political imprisonment while regulating labor and economic activities in the colonies. The Colonial Act solidified Portugal's control over its empire, prioritizing the needs of the metropole for raw materials and a protected market.12

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The Salazar regime
…in 1930, he prepared the Colonial Act, assimilating the administration of the overseas territories to his system. In July 1932 Salazar became prime minister, a post he was to hold (along with other key ministries during crises) until 1968.
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…in 1930, he prepared the Colonial Act, assimilating the administration of the overseas territories to his system. In July 1932 Salazar became prime minister, a post he was to hold (along with other key ministries during crises) until 1968.
Read More