Author Alex Fernandes discusses the Carnation Revolution in Portugal, starting with a Eurovision song. They touch on UK's missed fun opportunities, Milan's ice cream uproar, and the impact of music on the revolution. Insights on labor shortages in the UK post-Brexit and an innovative initiative where nature receives royalties for pop song sounds.
The Carnation Revolution in Portugal began with a Eurovision song, marking a unique historical event.
The UK's rejection of a visa access scheme for young EU and British nationals hindered opportunities amidst Brexit challenges.
Deep dives
Portugal's Carnation Revolution Commemoration
Portugal commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Carnation Revolution, a left-leaning military coup that led to significant changes in the country. The revolution coincided with the Eurovision Song Contest and highlighted the rise of the far right in modern-day Europe.
UK Rejects Youth Mobility Scheme
The UK government rejects a proposal by the European Commission for a mutual visa access scheme for young EU and British nationals aged 18 to 30. The rejection was criticized for hindering opportunities for young people amidst Brexit challenges and labor shortages.
Milan's Late-Night Regulations
Milan introduces regulations to ban the sale of takeaway food and alcohol past midnight on weekdays and 1:30 AM on weekends. The measure aims to address late-night noise and improve residents' quality of sleep, sparking controversy over cultural food traditions.
Nature Receives Royalties for Sound
An initiative called Sounds Right allows artists to credit nature as featured artists in songs incorporating nature sounds. A percentage of royalties goes to a conservation fund supporting ecosystem protection projects, promoting awareness and support for environmental conservation.
It’s the only revolution in world history (that we know of) that began with a Eurovision song. This week, Portugal marks 50 years since the Carnation Revolution ended decades of dictatorship. We speak to Alex Fernandes, author of a new accessible history of the revolution, about the day that changed everything. We’re also talking about the UK’s missed opportunity to give an entire generation fun memories (and skills, but mostly fun memories) and Milan's ice cream uproar.
Alex’s book, ‘The Carnation Revolution: The Day Portugal’s Dictatorship Fell’ is out now. You can find him on Twitter here and read his article on the music of the revolution here.