The Heroes of 31st January 1891- the legacy

The Revolution of 1891, on January 31st, aimed at the establishment of a Constitutional Democratic Republic with equality before law and the end of privilege.

The revolution was a culmination of a series of crisis- economic, social and political, but the precipitator of the 1891 Revolution on 31st January, in Porto was a reaction against the ultimatum by the British, in 1890, due to the "Mapa cor de Rosa", which intended to link former colonies Angola and Mozambique by land.

Those who perished on that day of 31st January will always be remembered by the city of Porto, and so, 126 years later, and every year, the heroes of that day are honoured in the Cemetery of the Prado do Repouso, as those who marked the beginning of political awareness of the general masses.

"The city of Porto, the capital of freedom, has always known in the most difficult times in its history, to stand against oppression and to do what is necessary to uphold its own rights. It has done so in the past and continues to do so in the present. The current local government is a worthy example of this nonconformity attitude", affirmed Luís Cameirão, the President of the Civic and Cultural Association January 31.

    

Sometimes, the sense of place can be difficult to grasp in some cities, but "Porto is a city of memory, a city that does not forget", remarked Rui Moreira, Mayor of Porto.

"We are celebrating a day that reminds us of the heroes who revolted against the status quo", declared the Mayor.

"This country, Portugal needs to meet the promises made de facto. It cannot continue to betray the citizen's expectations and the Revolution on 31st January 1891 was, above all, a citizen's movement", asserted Rui Moreira.

"Long live Portugal! Long live the 31st January and long live Porto and its citizens who do not accept to live a lesser life than the one they are capable of", with these words the Mayor of Porto concluded the official ceremony.