Father of Modern Democracy in Portugal: Mário Soares

Former Portuguese President Mário Soares is regarded as the Father of Modern Democracy by many political commentators. Mr. Soares was one of the first political activists in Portugal to fight against fascism. He held many important positions in Portuguese parliament like Foreign Minister, Prime Minister and President.

- Sudipto Zephyr Ghosh

Sadly, the modern democrat passed away in Lisbon after a brave fight against brief illness at the age of 92. His death was announced at a time when Portugal’s Prime Minister Antonio Costa was on a state visit to India.

1. Here are 10 interesting facts about Mário Soares that you should know about the beloved democrat from Portugal.

2. Born in 1924, Mário Soares belonged to an academically strong family. His father João Lopes Soares was a priest, anti-fascist activist and a government minister. He also founded the Colégio Moderno, from where Mario began his studies.