On the polarization of social relationships in Portugal - 1930/1970

Abstract

Portuguese social pattern presents from 1930 to 1970 deep changes in what concerns the class positions of the social agents. Such changes, only to be considered here from an economic point of view, were the result of the strenghtening and development of capitalism and of the effects of progressive capitalist dominion upon forms of pre-capitalist production, which importance has been progressively decreasing. Bourgeoisie and proletariat have been thus progressively emerging as sharply defined and opposed social classes. The polarization of social relationships beeing thus increased and intensified. The reinforcement of another group of social agents can be however simultaneously observed - a small fraction of petty bourgeoisie - apparently favoured by the particular way followed by capitalism on its progression towards establishement and expansion.