The Carnation Revolution was a peaceful coup that took place in Portugal on April 25, 1974. It aimed to overthrow the authoritarian regime known as the Estado Novo, which had been in power since the 1930s. The revolution was largely led by military officers and supported by the general public, who were discontent with the ongoing colonial wars in Africa and the lack of political freedoms. The name "Carnation Revolution" comes from the use of red carnations by the revolutionaries, symbolizing peace and hope. The coup resulted in the establishment of a democratic government and marked the end of nearly 50 years of dictatorship in Portugal, paving the way for significant social and political changes.