The next AHA presentation will feature a talk which was last given more than seven years ago.
At the end of Peter´s presentation on Famous Portuguese, he made a number of remarks about the famous dictator Marquês de Pombal. Cordially hated when he was dismissed in 1777, Pombal was vilified by the aristocracy and hounded by the lawyers of the new Queen, D Maria I. Consigned to the dustbin of history, you would think. But in 1915, politicians of the young Republic planned a public memorial to this man, and his statue now stands at a major junction in the capital, enjoying perhaps the best view in Lisbon. It took about 140 years for Pombal to emerge from the shadows of history into the limelight of today. Why are opinions so divided on his actions and his legacy? Does Portugal still enjoy the fruits of his labour? And will Dr Salazar enjoy a similar re-evaluation?
Peter´s talk will take place on Tuesday 27th May at the Municipal Library in Lagoa, and on Friday 30 May at 11:00 in Tavira Library. Our talks are free, and there is opportunity to make a contribution to the running of the Association. We shall be organising a lunch after the talk in Tavira - if you wish to lunch with Lynne and me at our usual restaurant, please be in touch.
As the summer is at last here, no doubt we shall be able to enjoy the garden!
Peter
Presidente
Associação dos Historiadores do Algarve
