Eanes, Antonio Ramalho

(1935- )

   Career army officer who played an important part in the Armed Forces Movement that organized the Revolution of 25 April 1974, a key figure in the defeat of a leftist military coup in 25 November 1975, and president of the republic during two terms. Eanes was born near Castelo Branco and entered the army school in 1953, at age 18. After promotion to lieutenant in 1957, he served for a period in Portuguese India. He served several tours in Portugal's African wars including Mozambique (1961-64 and 1966-68), Guinea (1969-71), and Angola (January 1974 until 25 April 1974). He participated in the Armed Forces Movement's conspiracy to topple the Estado Novo and later held important posts when the military governed Portugal during the period 1974-75. One key post was as head of the Portuguese Radio and Television system, an important position in the revolution's intense war of words and debates. In the failed leftist coup attempt on 25 November 1975, Eanes, now promoted to lieutenant colonel, played a pivotal role in the triumph of the moderate military party. In December 1975, he was named army chief of staff. General Ramalho Eanes was twice elected and served two full terms as president of the republic, in 1976-81 and 1981-86. In the 1976 presidential elections, Eanes received about 61 percent of the vote and in that of December 1980, 56.4 percent.