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Zita Seabra’s radical shift from communism to democratic socialism reshaped Portugal

A fiery revolutionary turned critic of authoritarianism, her journey mirrors Portugal’s turbulent path. Why her legacy still divides—and inspires—today’s left.

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In this image, there is an article contains pictures and some text.

Zita Seabra’s radical shift from communism to democratic socialism reshaped Portugal

Zita Seabra, a prominent figure in Portuguese politics post-1974 Carnation Revolution, is remembered for her evolving views on communism. Initially a staunch supporter of the revolutionary left, she later criticized authoritarian regimes in Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union. Her journey from hardline communist to advocate for democratic socialism and human rights remains influential today.

Seabra rose to prominence in the 1970s as a leading voice in the Portuguese Communist Party. She initially backed radical left-wing policies following the overthrow of the Estado Novo dictatorship. But her stance changed after witnessing the suppression of dissent in communist states.

Seabra’s political legacy reflects the tensions of Portugal’s revolutionary era. Her move from revolutionary communism to democratic socialism highlighted the struggles between ideology and real-world consequences. Today, her critiques of authoritarianism continue to resonate in discussions about freedom and governance.

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