49 years ago today, on April 25, 1976 (March 26, 1976 in the lunar calendar), socialist Suarez became Prime Minister of Portugal. After winning, Suarez held up a rose high. On April 25, 1976, when socialist leader Mario Suarez was elected Prime Minister of Portugal, socialists and Communists united. His stunning victory came after a military coup planned by liberals less than two years ago that toppled the authoritarian rule that had ruled Portugal for four decades. The coup leaders promised democratic reforms, but it took longer than expected, and an agreement was reached between rival military factions for elections. Negotiations made significant progress as the military no longer interfered in political negotiations. In the parliamentary election, Suarez received only 35% of the votes. Support from the Communist Party gave him a majority of votes.