期刊名称：Economic Sociology : the European Electronic Newsletter
印刷版ISSN：1871-3351
出版年度：2011
卷号：12
期号：3
出版社：Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies
摘要：In Portugal, like in the rest of the Southern European
countries that were part of the so-called third wave of
democratization of the 1970s (Greece and Spain), the
Euro was seen as a symbol of modernization, economic
growth and stability. Its introduction was considered the
culmination of a successful process of European integra-
tion accomplished in a very short period and against all
odds. The ugly ducks were, at last, recognized by their
capacity of adjustment. Accepting the Euro was a proof
of work well done and that, at last, the Portuguese
could be considered true European citizens. Being part
of the monetary union and fulfilling all the economic
and financial requirements previously established be-
came a reason of pride, easily explored by all the political
parties that supported the integration. The idea of catch-
ing up with the rest of Europe and economically con-
verging with the rich neighbors became more or less
credible. Some politicians went as far as using a cycling
metaphor, underlining that the Portuguese were now a
part of the leading European pack, meaning they were
well prepared and could be considered good students of
the European integration.
