Portugal was neutral throughout World War II, but the location of its different territories and colonies placed it directly on the routes of war, while the fascist/ nationalist government, led by António Oliveira Salazar, did everything to prevent entering the conflict assuming a "cooperative neutrality", first with the Nazis and then with the Allies.
The country was a gateway for refugees, spies, special envoys and all kinds of personalities, more or less obscure that transformed Lisbon in an important place for all the pararell events related with the war.
Neutrality allowed the collaboration and trade with the two blocs in conflict, in a game of compromise and resistance that adapted itself to the unfolding of events.
The population - generally poor and oblivious to the major world events - was although often witness or participant in events.
The site "Portugal 1939-1945" wants to make known some of the stories that the Portuguese lived during World War II ...
I wish you a good trip through our history ...
Air activity and aviation in Portugal during WWII.
Maritime activity in Portugal during World War II.
Portuguese, Portuguese descendants or foreigners born in the country who participated in any kind of actions or military missions.
Know about the country through stories, photographs, propaganda, advertising and publications.
The "Podcast 1939-1945" verbalizes stories, events, studies and books from our history.
