The Academia Portuguesa da História [Portuguese Academy of History] (APH) was founded in 1936, building on the legacy of the Academia Real da História Portuguesa [Royal Academy of Portuguese History] (ARHP). Both institutions share the mission of promoting diverse research into Portugal’s historical journey. Initiated by the state, this new institution brought together scholars from various scientific fields to produce, present, and debate historical knowledge, with the aim of enriching national historiography. Established in the country’s capital, the Academy has, from its inception to the present day, engaged in numerous acts of scientific creation and dissemination, initially aligned with the objectives outlined in the founding decree-law.

During the Estado Novo [New State] period and the institutional transitions of that era, nationalist narratives persisted, focusing on significant events in Portuguese history. Although there was already a historiographical tradition with methodologies and study subjects directed towards certain national elements, this traditionalist historiographical approach gained new prominence in the first quarter of the 20th century, driven by an interest in revisiting the History of Portugal as previously presented (Sérgio Campos Matos, "Continuidades e rupturas historiográficas..." Historiografia e Res Publica , 2017, 141-158). This historiographical current aligned closely with the political process and, notably, with the goals established by Salazar’s government. If we consider the defence and promotion of culture, heritage, and history as fundamental to the Estado Novo , it can be said that the APH was indirectly (and sometimes directly) involved in state activities. Not only was it “reborn” on government initiative, but it also operated under the Ministério da Educação Nacional [Ministry of National Education] and collaborated in the celebration of certain commemorative events, especially in the preparation of works and articles of national interest. These studies were often nationalistic and biased, either due to their intended purpose or because of their sometimes anachronistic style.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | (Pdf)