THE INVENTION OF THE CIVILIZING OLD NATION: PROPAGANDA, POLITICS AND THE EVENT “EXPOSIÇÃO DO MUNDO PORTUGUÊS” OF 1940

Abstract

In 1940, the Exhibition of the Portuguese World took place in Portugal. In order to exalt the Estado Novo, Salazar created guidelines for what should be an event to present the government and its achievements to the world, more precisely to Europeans, including the Portuguese. That moment is an opportunity to understand how the political guidelines of an authoritarian state direct official speeches and government propaganda. Through an Official Note, Salazar outlined the objectives of the event, established his interests and targets to be achieved. Documents referring to the period and theme indicate how actions were guided by State policy. The symbiosis between politics and propaganda was aimed at creating a positive image of Salazar's Estado Novo, with the aim of strengthening the Regime's image through the organization of a grandiose event.