Portugal Research Paper
* Lifestyle of Portugal:
The population of Portugal is around 10 million. Out of this number, only a third lives in a city. The rest live in the beautiful rural areas of this relatively undiscovered country. The Portuguese are a social group of people. It is very common to see them in groups eating, drinking or dancing. The family is very important in Portuguese culture. Despite their easy going mannerisms, formality rules when people are introduced. However once friendships are established, everything becomes much less formal, or even casual in nature.
Though the Portuguese are courteous, there are few things that may seem to show something different. Punctuality: This is something that does not seem to be high on the list of priorities …show more content…
for the Portuguese. Another notice lack of courtesy relates to driving. The Portuguese seem to have no rules when driving. These items are more cultural than anything else. Portuguese engage in a variety of recreational pursuits. Some of the more popular include folk songs, football (soccer) and bullfighting. It should be noted that the style and the result of bullfighting is very different from what is enjoyed in Latin America and Spain. The matador is on horseback, and at the end of the fight the bull is not killed.
PORTUGUESE LIFESTYLE STATS: | | All Stats | | | | | | | Just Stats | | | Sources | | | Definitions | | | Both | | |
Amphetamine use | 0.24% | | [19th of 26] | Cannabis use | 3.68% | | [17th of 26] | Happiness level > Not very or not at all happy | 26% | | [21st of 50] | Happiness level > Quite happy | 61% | | [11th of 50] | Happiness level > Very happy | 13% | | [34th of 50] | Happiness net | 48% | | [30th of 50] | Life satisfaction | 6.7 | | [27th of 69] | Life satisfaction inequality | 2.3 | | [63rd of 87] | Roller coasters | 3 | | [52nd of 75] | Roller coasters (per capita) | 2.839 per 10 million people | | [43rd of 75] |
* GESTURES:
The Corna Consisting of a clenched fist with the second and fifth fingers straightened out, the corna (‘horns’) hand gesture has most recently been adopted by fans of rock and heavy metal music, first used by Black Sabbath vocalist Ronnie James Dio.
The gesture carries only a vague meaning, implying the presence of Satan, malevolence and loud guitar music, and is used in much the same way as head banging. Historically, however, the symbol basically means “cuckold” (or rather, “your wife is cheating on you”), and its origins are Mediterranean, possibly dating back to Ancient Greece. The corna is still popular in Portugal and seems to be used most often to disagree with football referees - perhaps their wives are taking advantage of their husband’s occupation to score with hunky football players - though only when the referee make an incorrect decision, of …show more content…
course.
LANGUAGE:
Portuguese is spoken worldwide by 200 million people and is the fifth most spoken language in the world. Portuguese language is also the native language of some of the countries like Brazil, Galician besides the country of Portugal. Portugal language is an enchanting language that expresses a spiritual dynamic culture of great adventurers and crewmen.HISTORY OF PORTUGAL LANGUAGE:Portugal language is considered to be a Romance language that originated from Vulgar Latin. Portugal language was united with Glacian language till 15th century. During the 16th century, Portuguese developed and achieved its maximum dignity. At that time Glacian language was detached from the Portugal language and Portuguese language became the official language of the Republic of Portugal. EDUCATION:The Schools in Portugal provide students with exceptional educational environment. Highly qualified and trained teachers see to the need of all the individual students guiding them throughout the school years.There are basically three types of schools in Portugal, which are categorized according to the ownership of these schools. The types are Public School, Private School, Co operative School.EDUCATION SYSTEM OF PORTUGAL SCHOOLS:The education system at all the schools in Portugal can be classified into the following categories: * Basic Education
The basic education in these schools continues for 8 consecutive years. It is divided into three stages. The first stage lasts for 4 years and the second and third stage for 2 years. After completion of the course a Diploma/ Certificate is awarded to each student. * Secondary Education
Secondary education has two types of course: * General Course * Technical / Vocational CourseEDUCATION SYSTEM OF PORTUGAL UNIVERSITIES:Portugal University is a major part of the education system of the country. There are several old and new universities located all over the country in all the major cities and towns. The Coimbra University, which was established in 1290 in Coimbra, is one of the oldest universities in the world. At all the universities in Portugal students are served with advanced higher education system guided by highly qualified teachers.Types of Portugal University:The Portugal universities can be classified into categories of Private Universities, Public Universities (Autonomous), University InstitutionPortugal University Education System:The higher education at Portugal universities can be classified as: * Bachelor Degree/ License – After completing 3 years course students are awarded a Bachelor degree. The License is awarded after completing 4, 5 or even 6 years course. * Master Degree – The Master courses are divided into 4 semesters. Students must obtain 14 on 20 in their previous License course to continue with their Master degree. * Doctorate – To continue with Doctorate students must obtain 16 out of 20 in their Master and License courses. It involves research work as well as submission of thesis. * Agregacao – It is the final level of university study involving extensive research work. Students have to go through several examinations to continue with this course. SE EDUCATION STATISTIC: | | | | | | | | | | | | Just Stats | | | Sources | | | Definitions | | | Both | | |
Average years of schooling of adults | 5.9 | | [55th of 100] | Class size > Age 13 | 22.2 students | | [7th of 29] | Duration of compulsory education | 9 years | | [81st of 171] | Duration of education > Primary level | 6 | | [69th of 181] | Duration of education > Secondary level | 6 | | [98th of 181] | Education spending (% of GDP) | 5.8% | | [35th of 132] | Enrolment ratio > Secondary level | 85.2% | | [30th of 135] | Geographical aptitude results | 67.337 | | [116th of 191] | Literacy > Adults at high literacy level | 3.2% | | [17th of 17] | Literacy > Adults at low literacy level | 80.1% | | [1st of 17] | Literacy > Total population | 93.3% | | [66th of 160] | Mathematical literacy | 454 | | [24th of 27] | Primary teacher salary > Starting | $18,751.00 | | [15th of 22] | Public spending per student > Primary level | 20.5 | | [28th of 126] | Reading literacy | 470 | | [25th of 27] | School life expectancy > Male | 14.7 years | | [18th of 97] | School life expectancy > Total | 15.2 years | | [15th of 110] | Scientific literacy | 459 | | [25th of 27] | Teaching weeks per year > Primary | 34 weeks per year | | [35th of 36] | Tertiary enrollment | 50.2% | | [24th of 151] |
* CLOTHING:
Portugal boasts of long sunny summers that often extend to the autumn season. Winters tend to be moderately cool with numerous bouts of rain and thunder. Clothing requirements are adapted as per seasonal changes in Portugal. Most people prefer traditional dressing styles. Many people have incorporated modern dressing styles into their wardrobes, yet are not too fashionable.
Women have a natural tendency to wear traditional patterned dresses. Most women prefer to wear dresses, and men may choose to wear jackets and ties. The Portuguese are not fashion-conscious people. Most people prefer informal clothing, and this is evident in the minimal variance between work and social clothing. In case of business meetings, men may be seen dressed in formal, well-matched suits or sports coats. Women may also choose to wear suits or pantsuits at the work place.
It is advisable to keep windbreakers and jackets on hand even though the summer and autumn seasons are relatively warm. This is because evenings could turn cold and people may need to face cool Atlantic winds. Most day to day wear as well as Sunday wear reflect and keep alive traditional customs and preferences. Cotton turbans are commonly worn by workers as a protection from glaring sun rays.
Those who live in the rural areas of Portugal prefer to wear simple, loose, flowing clothes. Many of them are traditional fisher folk and wear attire suitable for fishing and going out sailing. The need for fashion is limited, and many rural regions boast of people who continue to wear clothes that may be considered to be from a long gone-era, with very basic designs. Tourists find such clothes to be very unique. Many shops may cater to the demand for such traditional clothes, as a tourist attraction. An important characteristic of Portuguese clothing lies in its simplicity of design, free-flowing designs, and soothing colors.
There are several leading clothing companies in Portugal. Some of them include Calvelex, Dielmar, Flor Textil, Alvaro Cunha, Crisprim Abreu, Ferreira and Principe and Gomes and Mendes. The clothing industry of Portugal is predominated by small companies. Portugal clothing and textile industry is some of the largest industrial sectors of the country, employing a considerable portion of the population.
FESTIVAL:
Portugal Festivals are integral parts of Portuguese culture. Portugal is one of the most happening countries in Europe. Throughout the year several activities and cultural and social events take place. The lively people of the entire country sing dance and celebrate these events. The traces of Roman and Moorish culture reflect through the celebration of each Portuguese festival.
Festivals in Portugal can be classified into several categories such religious festivals, music festivals, carnivals, closures and so on. Among all these religious and music festivals are the most important ones to take place.
MAJOR FESTIVALS OF PORTUGAL:
Some of the major festivals that are celebrated throughout the country can be classified according to the months of its celebration. * January : * Ano Novo is the New Year's Day celebrated on January 1 * Dia De Reis is the Day of the Kings celebrated on January 6 * Sao Vicente is celebrated on January 22 * February/ March: * February and March are the months of Carnival. Carnivals in Portugal are full of colors, music, dance and all. * March/ April: * Easter is the centre of celebration. The festival is celebrated throughout the Easter week. In Braga throughout the week huge processions take place. * May: * On the month of May one of the most important religious festivals are celebrated in Fatima.
NATIONAL HOLIDAYS OF PORTUGAL 01 January | New Year's Day | Mobile date February | Shrove Tuesday/Mardi Gras | Mobile date | Good Friday | 25 April | Liberation Day (Carnations Revolution) | 01 May | Labor Day | 10 June | Portugal, Camoes and the Portuguese Communities Abroad' Day | 19 June | Corpus Christi | 15 August | Assumption | 05 October | Proclamation of the Republic | 01 November | All Saints' Day | 01 December | Restoration of Independence | 08 December | Immaculate Conception | 25 December | Christmas |
* Food:
Portugal food is not very costly as the population is very poor. Fish is the main part of Portuguese food. Meat, rice and potatoes are also used in large varieties in the Portuguese dishes. Olive oil and wine are blended with most of the dishes.
| |
Breakfast consists of mostly pastries and coffee with any fried vegetable. Um galão is a very famous milky coffee which can also be had for breakfast. Soups are very famous in Portugal. Caldo verde is a very thick vegetable soup served with fried potatoes. Sopa à alentejana is a garlic and bread soup and served with poached Tuna, bacalhau, tuna, crayfish, mullet, crab, clams, barnacles and prawns are widely used in the dishes. Portuguese bacalhau cooked with potatoes onions, hard boiled eggs and olives is just mouth watering. Grilled and barbequed Sardine is also main part of Portugal cuisine.
Portuguese don’t like vegetable in their meal so it is a better idea to eat salads made of tomatoes, onions and olive oil. Some parts of Portugal use vegetables in Portugal dishes like omelets, chips and salads. Portuguese like to eat meat and chicken. Meat is generally served with piri piri sauce which is made of chilli and tomato. During meals, the Portuguese will also drink beer. However, it is in the late afternoon hours, at sunset, that the Portuguese enjoy a good fresh beer the most.
Bacalhau, is the national dish of Portugal. This dish of salted cod was eaten long back when Portuguese fishing boats reached Newfoundland. "Cozido à portuguesa," is a famous dish made of vegetables and meat. Pork is cooked in various ways. Roasted duckling which is known as “leitão assado” is mostly eaten in the northern part of the country.
Portugal is famous for its fortified wines: Port and Madeira. Port comes from the Douro region and Madeira from the island. These are great wines for an aperitif or as a digestif after a meal. However, Portuguese wine culture and expertise does not end with its fortified wines. The Douro region has become one of the most famous regions in the world for their DOC wines. In the same form as Chateaux from France, you will find wines denominated by Quintas in the Douro. The Alentejo and Dão make great red, white and rosé wines too. Enjoy a truly fascinating and intriguing wine tasting experience throughout Portugal. * Music of Portugal:
Fado is Portugal’s main traditional music. Folk music and dancing, however, also remain as this country’sfundamental forms of musical expression.The word fado means fate in Portuguese, however given the sad nature of the music, we think that the word lament is more appropriate. The fado is Portugal's pride and joy, and the country's national musical treasure.
It is also the least accessible form of Portuguese music. When done properly, it is beautiful and touching, when done poorly it can be pompous and self serving. It is a lyrical and sentimental music, and is thought to have its roots in African Slave music.
Mariza, a Portuguese fado singe
There are two versions of the fado. One from Alfama and Mouraria, districts of Lisbon, and the other from Coimbra. The Lisbon fado is more personal and full of feeling, and the Coimbra fado is more academic and reflects that cities ancient university traditions.
The theme of any fado is usually love, albeit unrequited, but there are fados written in other subjects.
* List of Famous Portuguese People:
* Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo is a famous Portuguese footballer who plays as a winger for English Premier League club Manchester United and the Portuguese national team. He is considered one of the strongest players in the world. In 2008, Ronaldo won his first UEFA Champions League title, and was named the final's man of the match. * Baruchspinoza
Spinoza was a notable philosopher of Portuguese Jewish origin and is considered Europe’s first modern philosopher. He is one of the great rationalists of 17th-century philosophy, laying the groundwork for the 18th century Enlightenment. Moreover, he is considered one of the fathers of modern Biblical criticism. * Nelly Furtado
Nelly Furtado is a Grammy Award-winning Canadian singer of Portuguese ancestry. She is a singer-songwriter, record producer, and actress, one of the most beautiful women in the world. "Promiscuous", "Maneater", "All Good Things (Come to an End)", and "Say It Right" are some of her hit singles. * José Saramago
Jose Saramago is a Nobel-laureate Portuguese novelist, playwright and journalist.. Saramago was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature in 1998, the first writer in Portuguese to do so: “Jose Saramago, who with parables sustained by imagination, compassion and irony continually enables us once again to apprehend an elusory reality" Nobel Committee.
* Manuel Barroso
Barroso is the 12th President of the European Commission. He served as Prime Minister of Portugal from 6 April 2002 to 17 July 2004. He assumed the position in the Commission 23 November 2004. * Vasco Da Gama
Vasco Da Gama was a Portuguese explorer who discovered an ocean route from Portugal to the East, one of the most successful in the European Age of Discovery and the commander of the first ships to sail directly from Europe to India. * Hofstede Dimension of Portugal:
* Description for each of Hofstede's Dimensions listed below
* Power Distance Index (PDI) :
That is the extent to which the less powerful members of organizations and institutions (like the family) accept and expect that power is distributed unequally. This represents inequality (more versus less), but defined from below, not from above. It suggests that a society's level of inequality is endorsed by the followers as much as by the leaders. Power and inequality, of course, are extremely fundamental facts of any society and anybody with some international experience will be aware that 'all societies are unequal, but some are more unequal than others'. * Individualism (IDV): On the one side versus its opposite, collectivism, that is the degree to which individuals are inte-grated into groups. On the individualist side we find societies in which the ties between individuals are loose: everyone is expected to look after him/herself and his/her immediate family. On the collectivist side, we find societies in which people from birth onwards are integrated into strong, cohesive in-groups, often extended families (with uncles, aunts and grandparents) which continue protecting them in exchange for unquestioning loyalty. The word 'collectivism' in this sense has no political meaning: it refers to the group, not to the state. Again, the issue addressed by this dimension is an extremely fundamental one, regarding all societies in the world. * Masculinity (MAS):
Masculinity versus its opposite, femininity, refers to the distribution of roles between the genders which is another fundamental issue for any society to which a range of solutions are found. The IBM studies revealed that (a) women's values differ less among societies than men's values; (b) men's values from one country to another contain a dimension from very assertive and competitive and maximally different from women's values on the one side, to modest and caring and similar to women's values on the other. The assertive pole has been called 'masculine' and the modest, caring pole 'feminine'. The women in feminine countries have the same modest, caring values as the men; in the masculine countries they are somewhat assertive and competitive, but not as much as the men, so that these countries show a gap between men's values and women's values. * Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI):
It deals with a society's tolerance for uncertainty and ambiguity; it ultimately refers to man's search for Truth. It indicates to what extent a culture programs its members to feel either uncomfortable or comfortable in unstructured situations. Unstructured situations are novel, unknown, surprising, different from usual. Uncertainty avoiding cultures try to minimize the possibility of such situations by strict laws and rules, safety and security measures, and on the philosophical and religious level by a belief in absolute Truth; 'there can only be one Truth and we have it'. People in uncertainty avoiding countries are also more emotional, and motivated by inner nervous energy. The opposite type, uncertainty accepting cultures, are more tolerant of opinions different from what they are used to; they try to have as few rules as possible, and on the philosophical and religious level they are relativist and allow many currents to flow side by side. People within these cultures are more phlegmatic and contemplative, and not expected by their environment to express emotions.
* Long-Term Orientation (LTO):
LTO versus short-term orientation: this fifth dimension was found in a study among students in 23 countries around the world, using a questionnaire designed by Chinese scholars It can be said to deal with Virtue regardless of Truth. Values associated with Long Term Orientation are thrift and perseverance; values associated with Short Term Orientation are respect for tradition, fulfilling social obligations, and protecting one's 'face'. Both the positively and the negatively rated values of this dimension are found in the teachings of Confucius, the most influential Chinese philosopher who lived around 500 B.C.; however, the dimension also applies to countries without a Confucian heritage.
* Economy of Portugal:
The Economy of Portugal is a high income mixed economy. The Global Competitiveness Report 2008-2009 edition placed Portugal in the 43rd position out of 134 countries and territories.
Most imports come from the European Union countries of Spain, Germany, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom.
Most exports also go to other European Union member states. Portugal's central bank is the Banco de Portugal, which is part of the European System of Central Banks. The major stock exchange is the Euronext Lisbon which is part of the NYSE Euronext, the first global stock exchange.
The educational system remains underdeveloped and the country has been increasingly overshadowed by lower-cost producers in Central Europe and Asia as a target for foreign direct investment. These long-term problems have hindered much economic growth.
The Financial Crisis of 2008 is still affecting the Portuguese economy severely, causing a wide range of domestic problems specifically related to the levels of public deficit in the economy, as well as the excessive debt levels, soaring up to at least 223% of Portugal's GDP. Nonetheless, the government faces tough choices in its attempts to stimulate the economy, while attempting to maintain its public deficit around the EU average. It has been predicted that the Portuguese economy will not significantly recover until 2012.
In the first weeks of 2010, renewed anxiety about the excessive levels of debt in some EU countries and, more generally, about the health of the euro has spread from Ireland and Greece to Portugal, Spain and
Italy.
Some European think-tanks such as the CEE Council have argued that the predicament some mainland EU countries find themselves in today is the result of a decade of debt-fueled Keynesian economic policies pursued by local policy makers and complacent EU central banker,[15] and many economists have recommended the imposition of a battery of corrective policies to control public debt- such as drastic austerity measures and substantially higher taxes.
Some senior German policy makers went as far as to say that emergency bailouts to Greece and future EU aid recipients should bring with it harsh penalties.[16]
In 2010, acronyms were widely used by international bond analysts, academics, and by the international economic press when referring to the underperforming economies of Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Greece, and Spain.
A report published in January 2011 by the Diário de Notícias, a leading Portuguese newspaper, demonstrated that in the period between the Carnation Revolution in 1974 and 2010, the democratic Portuguese Republic governments have encouraged over expenditure and investment bubbles through unclear public-private partnerships, funding numerous ineffective and unnecessary external counsultancy and advising committees and firms, allowing considerable slippage in state-managed public works, inflating top management and head officers's bonuses and wages, persistent and lasting recruitment policy that boosts the number of redundant public servants, along with the help of risky credit, public debt creation, and mismanaged European structural and cohesion funds across almost four decades, that the Prime Minister Sócrates's cabinet was not able to forecast or prevent at first hand in 2005, and later was incapable of doing anything to remediate the situation when the country was on the verge of bankruptcy by 2011.
GDP: purchasing power parity—$149.5 billion (1997 est.)
GDP—real growth rate: 3.3% (1997 est.)
GDP—per capita: purchasing power parity—$15 200 (1997 est.)
GDP—composition by sector: agriculture: 6% industry: 36% services: 58% (1995 est.)
Inflation rate—consumer price index: 2.3% (1997 est.)
Labor force: total: 4.53 million (1996 est.) by occupation: services 56% manufacturing 23% agriculture forestry fisheries 11% construction 8% utilities 1% mining 1% (1995)
Unemployment rate: 7% (January 1998)
Budget:
revenues: $48 billion expenditures: $52 billion including capital expenditures of $7.4 billion (1996 est.)
Industries: textiles and footwear; wood pulp paper and cork; metalworking; oil refining; chemicals; fish canning; wine; tourism
Industrial production growth rate: 2.2% (1996 est.)
Electricity—capacity: 8.831 million kW (1995)
Electricity—production: 31.446 billion kWh (1995)
Electricity—consumption per capita: 3 072 kWh (1995)
Agriculture—products: grain potatoes olives grapes; sheep cattle goats poultry meat dairy products
Exports:
total value: $23.8 billion (f.o.b. 1996) commodities: clothing and footwear machinery cork and paper products hides partners: EU 76% other developed countries 9% (US 5%)
Imports:
total value: $33.9 billion (c.i.f. 1996) commodities: machinery and transport equipment agricultural products chemicals petroleum textiles partners: EU 72% other developed countries 8% (US 3%) less developed countries 17% (1995)
Debt—external: $13.1 billion (1997 est.)
Economic aid: donor: ODA $220 million (1996) recipient: ODA $70 million (1993)
Currency: 1 Euro = 100 cents * ENERGY/ POWER:
Renewable energy in Portugal was the source for 45% of the country's electricity generation in 2010 - an increase of 28% in 5 years. In 2001, the Portuguese government launched a new energy policy instrument – the E4 Programme (Energy Efficiency and Endogenous Energies), consisting of a set of multiple, diversified measures aimed at promoting a consistent, integrated approach to energy supply and demand. By promoting energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy (endogenous) sources, the programme seeks to upgrade the competitiveness of the Portuguese economy and to modernize the country’s social fabric, while preserving the environment by reducing gas emissions, especially the carbon dioxide responsible for climate change.
* Hydro power:
Alto Lindoso dam, serving the largest hydroelectric power station in the country
The largest hydroelectric power station is at the Alto Lindoso dam, with a capacity of 630 MW. Portugal has about 100 small hydro systems, with a capacity of 256 MW, which produce 815 GWh/year. * Wind power:
In March 2007, there was 1,874 MW of wind power generating capacity installed in Portugal, with another 908 MW under construction. The major wind turbine manufacturers in the Portuguese market are Enercon, Vestas and Gamesa.[4]
The 240 MW Alto Minho Wind Farm in the Viana do Castelo district became fully operational in November, 2008.[5] At the time of completion it was Europe's largest on-shore wind farm.[6]
Other major wind farms which are operating, or under construction, include: Arada-Montemuro Wind Farm (112 MW), Gardunha Wind Farm (106 MW), Pinhal Interior Wind Farm (144 MW), Ventominho Wind Farm (240 MW).
* Solar power:
Serpa solar power plant
A large photovoltaic power project, the Serpa solar power plant, has been completed in Portugal, in one of Europe's sunniest areas.[7] The 11 megawatt plant covers 150 acres (0.61 km2) and has 52,000 PV panels. The panels are raised 2 metres off the ground and the area will remain productive grazing land. The plant provides enough energy for 8,000 homes and will save an estimated 30,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year.[8][9]
Not far from there, Moura photovoltaic power station is under construction. With more than 376,000 solar modules, it will have an installed capacity of 62MWp when it is finished in 2010. The first stage of construction is scheduled for completion in 2008. A solar panel factory is also being built in the city of Moura, where there are plans to build a research lab. * Geothermal power:
Portugal's main investment for the use of this type of energy is in the Azores. There has been a small scale use of this energy source since the 80s in Chaves and S. Pedro do Sul, Continental Portugal providing 3 MWt.
In the Azores the use of Geothermal energy is widespread, with investments in 8 of the 9 Islands, collectively producing some 235.5 MWt. In 2003, 25% of the electricity consumed in São Miguel was produced by geothermal energy.
* Wave power:
Pelamis machines at the Agucadoura Wave Park
Aguçadoura Wave Farm is the world's first commercial wave farm. It is located three miles (5 km) offshore near Póvoa de Varzim north of Porto. The farm uses three Pelamis wave energy converters to convert the motion of the ocean surface waves into electricity. The farm was
The population of Portugal is around 10 million. Out of this number, only a third lives in a city. The rest live in the beautiful rural areas of this relatively undiscovered country. The Portuguese are a social group of people. It is very common to see them in groups eating, drinking or dancing. The family is very important in Portuguese culture. Despite their easy going mannerisms, formality rules when people are introduced. However once friendships are established, everything becomes much less formal, or even casual in nature.
Though the Portuguese are courteous, there are few things that may seem to show something different. Punctuality: This is something that does not seem to be high on the list of priorities …show more content…
for the Portuguese. Another notice lack of courtesy relates to driving. The Portuguese seem to have no rules when driving. These items are more cultural than anything else. Portuguese engage in a variety of recreational pursuits. Some of the more popular include folk songs, football (soccer) and bullfighting. It should be noted that the style and the result of bullfighting is very different from what is enjoyed in Latin America and Spain. The matador is on horseback, and at the end of the fight the bull is not killed.
PORTUGUESE LIFESTYLE STATS: | | All Stats | | | | | | | Just Stats | | | Sources | | | Definitions | | | Both | | |
Amphetamine use | 0.24% | | [19th of 26] | Cannabis use | 3.68% | | [17th of 26] | Happiness level > Not very or not at all happy | 26% | | [21st of 50] | Happiness level > Quite happy | 61% | | [11th of 50] | Happiness level > Very happy | 13% | | [34th of 50] | Happiness net | 48% | | [30th of 50] | Life satisfaction | 6.7 | | [27th of 69] | Life satisfaction inequality | 2.3 | | [63rd of 87] | Roller coasters | 3 | | [52nd of 75] | Roller coasters (per capita) | 2.839 per 10 million people | | [43rd of 75] |
* GESTURES:
The Corna Consisting of a clenched fist with the second and fifth fingers straightened out, the corna (‘horns’) hand gesture has most recently been adopted by fans of rock and heavy metal music, first used by Black Sabbath vocalist Ronnie James Dio.
The gesture carries only a vague meaning, implying the presence of Satan, malevolence and loud guitar music, and is used in much the same way as head banging. Historically, however, the symbol basically means “cuckold” (or rather, “your wife is cheating on you”), and its origins are Mediterranean, possibly dating back to Ancient Greece. The corna is still popular in Portugal and seems to be used most often to disagree with football referees - perhaps their wives are taking advantage of their husband’s occupation to score with hunky football players - though only when the referee make an incorrect decision, of …show more content…
course.
LANGUAGE:
Portuguese is spoken worldwide by 200 million people and is the fifth most spoken language in the world. Portuguese language is also the native language of some of the countries like Brazil, Galician besides the country of Portugal. Portugal language is an enchanting language that expresses a spiritual dynamic culture of great adventurers and crewmen.HISTORY OF PORTUGAL LANGUAGE:Portugal language is considered to be a Romance language that originated from Vulgar Latin. Portugal language was united with Glacian language till 15th century. During the 16th century, Portuguese developed and achieved its maximum dignity. At that time Glacian language was detached from the Portugal language and Portuguese language became the official language of the Republic of Portugal. EDUCATION:The Schools in Portugal provide students with exceptional educational environment. Highly qualified and trained teachers see to the need of all the individual students guiding them throughout the school years.There are basically three types of schools in Portugal, which are categorized according to the ownership of these schools. The types are Public School, Private School, Co operative School.EDUCATION SYSTEM OF PORTUGAL SCHOOLS:The education system at all the schools in Portugal can be classified into the following categories: * Basic Education
The basic education in these schools continues for 8 consecutive years. It is divided into three stages. The first stage lasts for 4 years and the second and third stage for 2 years. After completion of the course a Diploma/ Certificate is awarded to each student. * Secondary Education
Secondary education has two types of course: * General Course * Technical / Vocational CourseEDUCATION SYSTEM OF PORTUGAL UNIVERSITIES:Portugal University is a major part of the education system of the country. There are several old and new universities located all over the country in all the major cities and towns. The Coimbra University, which was established in 1290 in Coimbra, is one of the oldest universities in the world. At all the universities in Portugal students are served with advanced higher education system guided by highly qualified teachers.Types of Portugal University:The Portugal universities can be classified into categories of Private Universities, Public Universities (Autonomous), University InstitutionPortugal University Education System:The higher education at Portugal universities can be classified as: * Bachelor Degree/ License – After completing 3 years course students are awarded a Bachelor degree. The License is awarded after completing 4, 5 or even 6 years course. * Master Degree – The Master courses are divided into 4 semesters. Students must obtain 14 on 20 in their previous License course to continue with their Master degree. * Doctorate – To continue with Doctorate students must obtain 16 out of 20 in their Master and License courses. It involves research work as well as submission of thesis. * Agregacao – It is the final level of university study involving extensive research work. Students have to go through several examinations to continue with this course. SE EDUCATION STATISTIC: | | | | | | | | | | | | Just Stats | | | Sources | | | Definitions | | | Both | | |
Average years of schooling of adults | 5.9 | | [55th of 100] | Class size > Age 13 | 22.2 students | | [7th of 29] | Duration of compulsory education | 9 years | | [81st of 171] | Duration of education > Primary level | 6 | | [69th of 181] | Duration of education > Secondary level | 6 | | [98th of 181] | Education spending (% of GDP) | 5.8% | | [35th of 132] | Enrolment ratio > Secondary level | 85.2% | | [30th of 135] | Geographical aptitude results | 67.337 | | [116th of 191] | Literacy > Adults at high literacy level | 3.2% | | [17th of 17] | Literacy > Adults at low literacy level | 80.1% | | [1st of 17] | Literacy > Total population | 93.3% | | [66th of 160] | Mathematical literacy | 454 | | [24th of 27] | Primary teacher salary > Starting | $18,751.00 | | [15th of 22] | Public spending per student > Primary level | 20.5 | | [28th of 126] | Reading literacy | 470 | | [25th of 27] | School life expectancy > Male | 14.7 years | | [18th of 97] | School life expectancy > Total | 15.2 years | | [15th of 110] | Scientific literacy | 459 | | [25th of 27] | Teaching weeks per year > Primary | 34 weeks per year | | [35th of 36] | Tertiary enrollment | 50.2% | | [24th of 151] |
* CLOTHING:
Portugal boasts of long sunny summers that often extend to the autumn season. Winters tend to be moderately cool with numerous bouts of rain and thunder. Clothing requirements are adapted as per seasonal changes in Portugal. Most people prefer traditional dressing styles. Many people have incorporated modern dressing styles into their wardrobes, yet are not too fashionable.
Women have a natural tendency to wear traditional patterned dresses. Most women prefer to wear dresses, and men may choose to wear jackets and ties. The Portuguese are not fashion-conscious people. Most people prefer informal clothing, and this is evident in the minimal variance between work and social clothing. In case of business meetings, men may be seen dressed in formal, well-matched suits or sports coats. Women may also choose to wear suits or pantsuits at the work place.
It is advisable to keep windbreakers and jackets on hand even though the summer and autumn seasons are relatively warm. This is because evenings could turn cold and people may need to face cool Atlantic winds. Most day to day wear as well as Sunday wear reflect and keep alive traditional customs and preferences. Cotton turbans are commonly worn by workers as a protection from glaring sun rays.
Those who live in the rural areas of Portugal prefer to wear simple, loose, flowing clothes. Many of them are traditional fisher folk and wear attire suitable for fishing and going out sailing. The need for fashion is limited, and many rural regions boast of people who continue to wear clothes that may be considered to be from a long gone-era, with very basic designs. Tourists find such clothes to be very unique. Many shops may cater to the demand for such traditional clothes, as a tourist attraction. An important characteristic of Portuguese clothing lies in its simplicity of design, free-flowing designs, and soothing colors.
There are several leading clothing companies in Portugal. Some of them include Calvelex, Dielmar, Flor Textil, Alvaro Cunha, Crisprim Abreu, Ferreira and Principe and Gomes and Mendes. The clothing industry of Portugal is predominated by small companies. Portugal clothing and textile industry is some of the largest industrial sectors of the country, employing a considerable portion of the population.
FESTIVAL:
Portugal Festivals are integral parts of Portuguese culture. Portugal is one of the most happening countries in Europe. Throughout the year several activities and cultural and social events take place. The lively people of the entire country sing dance and celebrate these events. The traces of Roman and Moorish culture reflect through the celebration of each Portuguese festival.
Festivals in Portugal can be classified into several categories such religious festivals, music festivals, carnivals, closures and so on. Among all these religious and music festivals are the most important ones to take place.
MAJOR FESTIVALS OF PORTUGAL:
Some of the major festivals that are celebrated throughout the country can be classified according to the months of its celebration. * January : * Ano Novo is the New Year's Day celebrated on January 1 * Dia De Reis is the Day of the Kings celebrated on January 6 * Sao Vicente is celebrated on January 22 * February/ March: * February and March are the months of Carnival. Carnivals in Portugal are full of colors, music, dance and all. * March/ April: * Easter is the centre of celebration. The festival is celebrated throughout the Easter week. In Braga throughout the week huge processions take place. * May: * On the month of May one of the most important religious festivals are celebrated in Fatima.
NATIONAL HOLIDAYS OF PORTUGAL 01 January | New Year's Day | Mobile date February | Shrove Tuesday/Mardi Gras | Mobile date | Good Friday | 25 April | Liberation Day (Carnations Revolution) | 01 May | Labor Day | 10 June | Portugal, Camoes and the Portuguese Communities Abroad' Day | 19 June | Corpus Christi | 15 August | Assumption | 05 October | Proclamation of the Republic | 01 November | All Saints' Day | 01 December | Restoration of Independence | 08 December | Immaculate Conception | 25 December | Christmas |
* Food:
Portugal food is not very costly as the population is very poor. Fish is the main part of Portuguese food. Meat, rice and potatoes are also used in large varieties in the Portuguese dishes. Olive oil and wine are blended with most of the dishes.
| |
Breakfast consists of mostly pastries and coffee with any fried vegetable. Um galão is a very famous milky coffee which can also be had for breakfast. Soups are very famous in Portugal. Caldo verde is a very thick vegetable soup served with fried potatoes. Sopa à alentejana is a garlic and bread soup and served with poached Tuna, bacalhau, tuna, crayfish, mullet, crab, clams, barnacles and prawns are widely used in the dishes. Portuguese bacalhau cooked with potatoes onions, hard boiled eggs and olives is just mouth watering. Grilled and barbequed Sardine is also main part of Portugal cuisine.
Portuguese don’t like vegetable in their meal so it is a better idea to eat salads made of tomatoes, onions and olive oil. Some parts of Portugal use vegetables in Portugal dishes like omelets, chips and salads. Portuguese like to eat meat and chicken. Meat is generally served with piri piri sauce which is made of chilli and tomato. During meals, the Portuguese will also drink beer. However, it is in the late afternoon hours, at sunset, that the Portuguese enjoy a good fresh beer the most.
Bacalhau, is the national dish of Portugal. This dish of salted cod was eaten long back when Portuguese fishing boats reached Newfoundland. "Cozido à portuguesa," is a famous dish made of vegetables and meat. Pork is cooked in various ways. Roasted duckling which is known as “leitão assado” is mostly eaten in the northern part of the country.
Portugal is famous for its fortified wines: Port and Madeira. Port comes from the Douro region and Madeira from the island. These are great wines for an aperitif or as a digestif after a meal. However, Portuguese wine culture and expertise does not end with its fortified wines. The Douro region has become one of the most famous regions in the world for their DOC wines. In the same form as Chateaux from France, you will find wines denominated by Quintas in the Douro. The Alentejo and Dão make great red, white and rosé wines too. Enjoy a truly fascinating and intriguing wine tasting experience throughout Portugal. * Music of Portugal:
Fado is Portugal’s main traditional music. Folk music and dancing, however, also remain as this country’sfundamental forms of musical expression.The word fado means fate in Portuguese, however given the sad nature of the music, we think that the word lament is more appropriate. The fado is Portugal's pride and joy, and the country's national musical treasure.
It is also the least accessible form of Portuguese music. When done properly, it is beautiful and touching, when done poorly it can be pompous and self serving. It is a lyrical and sentimental music, and is thought to have its roots in African Slave music.
Mariza, a Portuguese fado singe
There are two versions of the fado. One from Alfama and Mouraria, districts of Lisbon, and the other from Coimbra. The Lisbon fado is more personal and full of feeling, and the Coimbra fado is more academic and reflects that cities ancient university traditions.
The theme of any fado is usually love, albeit unrequited, but there are fados written in other subjects.
* List of Famous Portuguese People:
* Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo is a famous Portuguese footballer who plays as a winger for English Premier League club Manchester United and the Portuguese national team. He is considered one of the strongest players in the world. In 2008, Ronaldo won his first UEFA Champions League title, and was named the final's man of the match. * Baruchspinoza
Spinoza was a notable philosopher of Portuguese Jewish origin and is considered Europe’s first modern philosopher. He is one of the great rationalists of 17th-century philosophy, laying the groundwork for the 18th century Enlightenment. Moreover, he is considered one of the fathers of modern Biblical criticism. * Nelly Furtado
Nelly Furtado is a Grammy Award-winning Canadian singer of Portuguese ancestry. She is a singer-songwriter, record producer, and actress, one of the most beautiful women in the world. "Promiscuous", "Maneater", "All Good Things (Come to an End)", and "Say It Right" are some of her hit singles. * José Saramago
Jose Saramago is a Nobel-laureate Portuguese novelist, playwright and journalist.. Saramago was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature in 1998, the first writer in Portuguese to do so: “Jose Saramago, who with parables sustained by imagination, compassion and irony continually enables us once again to apprehend an elusory reality" Nobel Committee.
* Manuel Barroso
Barroso is the 12th President of the European Commission. He served as Prime Minister of Portugal from 6 April 2002 to 17 July 2004. He assumed the position in the Commission 23 November 2004. * Vasco Da Gama
Vasco Da Gama was a Portuguese explorer who discovered an ocean route from Portugal to the East, one of the most successful in the European Age of Discovery and the commander of the first ships to sail directly from Europe to India. * Hofstede Dimension of Portugal:
* Description for each of Hofstede's Dimensions listed below
* Power Distance Index (PDI) :
That is the extent to which the less powerful members of organizations and institutions (like the family) accept and expect that power is distributed unequally. This represents inequality (more versus less), but defined from below, not from above. It suggests that a society's level of inequality is endorsed by the followers as much as by the leaders. Power and inequality, of course, are extremely fundamental facts of any society and anybody with some international experience will be aware that 'all societies are unequal, but some are more unequal than others'. * Individualism (IDV): On the one side versus its opposite, collectivism, that is the degree to which individuals are inte-grated into groups. On the individualist side we find societies in which the ties between individuals are loose: everyone is expected to look after him/herself and his/her immediate family. On the collectivist side, we find societies in which people from birth onwards are integrated into strong, cohesive in-groups, often extended families (with uncles, aunts and grandparents) which continue protecting them in exchange for unquestioning loyalty. The word 'collectivism' in this sense has no political meaning: it refers to the group, not to the state. Again, the issue addressed by this dimension is an extremely fundamental one, regarding all societies in the world. * Masculinity (MAS):
Masculinity versus its opposite, femininity, refers to the distribution of roles between the genders which is another fundamental issue for any society to which a range of solutions are found. The IBM studies revealed that (a) women's values differ less among societies than men's values; (b) men's values from one country to another contain a dimension from very assertive and competitive and maximally different from women's values on the one side, to modest and caring and similar to women's values on the other. The assertive pole has been called 'masculine' and the modest, caring pole 'feminine'. The women in feminine countries have the same modest, caring values as the men; in the masculine countries they are somewhat assertive and competitive, but not as much as the men, so that these countries show a gap between men's values and women's values. * Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI):
It deals with a society's tolerance for uncertainty and ambiguity; it ultimately refers to man's search for Truth. It indicates to what extent a culture programs its members to feel either uncomfortable or comfortable in unstructured situations. Unstructured situations are novel, unknown, surprising, different from usual. Uncertainty avoiding cultures try to minimize the possibility of such situations by strict laws and rules, safety and security measures, and on the philosophical and religious level by a belief in absolute Truth; 'there can only be one Truth and we have it'. People in uncertainty avoiding countries are also more emotional, and motivated by inner nervous energy. The opposite type, uncertainty accepting cultures, are more tolerant of opinions different from what they are used to; they try to have as few rules as possible, and on the philosophical and religious level they are relativist and allow many currents to flow side by side. People within these cultures are more phlegmatic and contemplative, and not expected by their environment to express emotions.
* Long-Term Orientation (LTO):
LTO versus short-term orientation: this fifth dimension was found in a study among students in 23 countries around the world, using a questionnaire designed by Chinese scholars It can be said to deal with Virtue regardless of Truth. Values associated with Long Term Orientation are thrift and perseverance; values associated with Short Term Orientation are respect for tradition, fulfilling social obligations, and protecting one's 'face'. Both the positively and the negatively rated values of this dimension are found in the teachings of Confucius, the most influential Chinese philosopher who lived around 500 B.C.; however, the dimension also applies to countries without a Confucian heritage.
* Economy of Portugal:
The Economy of Portugal is a high income mixed economy. The Global Competitiveness Report 2008-2009 edition placed Portugal in the 43rd position out of 134 countries and territories.
Most imports come from the European Union countries of Spain, Germany, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom.
Most exports also go to other European Union member states. Portugal's central bank is the Banco de Portugal, which is part of the European System of Central Banks. The major stock exchange is the Euronext Lisbon which is part of the NYSE Euronext, the first global stock exchange.
The educational system remains underdeveloped and the country has been increasingly overshadowed by lower-cost producers in Central Europe and Asia as a target for foreign direct investment. These long-term problems have hindered much economic growth.
The Financial Crisis of 2008 is still affecting the Portuguese economy severely, causing a wide range of domestic problems specifically related to the levels of public deficit in the economy, as well as the excessive debt levels, soaring up to at least 223% of Portugal's GDP. Nonetheless, the government faces tough choices in its attempts to stimulate the economy, while attempting to maintain its public deficit around the EU average. It has been predicted that the Portuguese economy will not significantly recover until 2012.
In the first weeks of 2010, renewed anxiety about the excessive levels of debt in some EU countries and, more generally, about the health of the euro has spread from Ireland and Greece to Portugal, Spain and
Italy.
Some European think-tanks such as the CEE Council have argued that the predicament some mainland EU countries find themselves in today is the result of a decade of debt-fueled Keynesian economic policies pursued by local policy makers and complacent EU central banker,[15] and many economists have recommended the imposition of a battery of corrective policies to control public debt- such as drastic austerity measures and substantially higher taxes.
Some senior German policy makers went as far as to say that emergency bailouts to Greece and future EU aid recipients should bring with it harsh penalties.[16]
In 2010, acronyms were widely used by international bond analysts, academics, and by the international economic press when referring to the underperforming economies of Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Greece, and Spain.
A report published in January 2011 by the Diário de Notícias, a leading Portuguese newspaper, demonstrated that in the period between the Carnation Revolution in 1974 and 2010, the democratic Portuguese Republic governments have encouraged over expenditure and investment bubbles through unclear public-private partnerships, funding numerous ineffective and unnecessary external counsultancy and advising committees and firms, allowing considerable slippage in state-managed public works, inflating top management and head officers's bonuses and wages, persistent and lasting recruitment policy that boosts the number of redundant public servants, along with the help of risky credit, public debt creation, and mismanaged European structural and cohesion funds across almost four decades, that the Prime Minister Sócrates's cabinet was not able to forecast or prevent at first hand in 2005, and later was incapable of doing anything to remediate the situation when the country was on the verge of bankruptcy by 2011.
GDP: purchasing power parity—$149.5 billion (1997 est.)
GDP—real growth rate: 3.3% (1997 est.)
GDP—per capita: purchasing power parity—$15 200 (1997 est.)
GDP—composition by sector: agriculture: 6% industry: 36% services: 58% (1995 est.)
Inflation rate—consumer price index: 2.3% (1997 est.)
Labor force: total: 4.53 million (1996 est.) by occupation: services 56% manufacturing 23% agriculture forestry fisheries 11% construction 8% utilities 1% mining 1% (1995)
Unemployment rate: 7% (January 1998)
Budget:
revenues: $48 billion expenditures: $52 billion including capital expenditures of $7.4 billion (1996 est.)
Industries: textiles and footwear; wood pulp paper and cork; metalworking; oil refining; chemicals; fish canning; wine; tourism
Industrial production growth rate: 2.2% (1996 est.)
Electricity—capacity: 8.831 million kW (1995)
Electricity—production: 31.446 billion kWh (1995)
Electricity—consumption per capita: 3 072 kWh (1995)
Agriculture—products: grain potatoes olives grapes; sheep cattle goats poultry meat dairy products
Exports:
total value: $23.8 billion (f.o.b. 1996) commodities: clothing and footwear machinery cork and paper products hides partners: EU 76% other developed countries 9% (US 5%)
Imports:
total value: $33.9 billion (c.i.f. 1996) commodities: machinery and transport equipment agricultural products chemicals petroleum textiles partners: EU 72% other developed countries 8% (US 3%) less developed countries 17% (1995)
Debt—external: $13.1 billion (1997 est.)
Economic aid: donor: ODA $220 million (1996) recipient: ODA $70 million (1993)
Currency: 1 Euro = 100 cents * ENERGY/ POWER:
Renewable energy in Portugal was the source for 45% of the country's electricity generation in 2010 - an increase of 28% in 5 years. In 2001, the Portuguese government launched a new energy policy instrument – the E4 Programme (Energy Efficiency and Endogenous Energies), consisting of a set of multiple, diversified measures aimed at promoting a consistent, integrated approach to energy supply and demand. By promoting energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy (endogenous) sources, the programme seeks to upgrade the competitiveness of the Portuguese economy and to modernize the country’s social fabric, while preserving the environment by reducing gas emissions, especially the carbon dioxide responsible for climate change.
* Hydro power:
Alto Lindoso dam, serving the largest hydroelectric power station in the country
The largest hydroelectric power station is at the Alto Lindoso dam, with a capacity of 630 MW. Portugal has about 100 small hydro systems, with a capacity of 256 MW, which produce 815 GWh/year. * Wind power:
In March 2007, there was 1,874 MW of wind power generating capacity installed in Portugal, with another 908 MW under construction. The major wind turbine manufacturers in the Portuguese market are Enercon, Vestas and Gamesa.[4]
The 240 MW Alto Minho Wind Farm in the Viana do Castelo district became fully operational in November, 2008.[5] At the time of completion it was Europe's largest on-shore wind farm.[6]
Other major wind farms which are operating, or under construction, include: Arada-Montemuro Wind Farm (112 MW), Gardunha Wind Farm (106 MW), Pinhal Interior Wind Farm (144 MW), Ventominho Wind Farm (240 MW).
* Solar power:
Serpa solar power plant
A large photovoltaic power project, the Serpa solar power plant, has been completed in Portugal, in one of Europe's sunniest areas.[7] The 11 megawatt plant covers 150 acres (0.61 km2) and has 52,000 PV panels. The panels are raised 2 metres off the ground and the area will remain productive grazing land. The plant provides enough energy for 8,000 homes and will save an estimated 30,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year.[8][9]
Not far from there, Moura photovoltaic power station is under construction. With more than 376,000 solar modules, it will have an installed capacity of 62MWp when it is finished in 2010. The first stage of construction is scheduled for completion in 2008. A solar panel factory is also being built in the city of Moura, where there are plans to build a research lab. * Geothermal power:
Portugal's main investment for the use of this type of energy is in the Azores. There has been a small scale use of this energy source since the 80s in Chaves and S. Pedro do Sul, Continental Portugal providing 3 MWt.
In the Azores the use of Geothermal energy is widespread, with investments in 8 of the 9 Islands, collectively producing some 235.5 MWt. In 2003, 25% of the electricity consumed in São Miguel was produced by geothermal energy.
* Wave power:
Pelamis machines at the Agucadoura Wave Park
Aguçadoura Wave Farm is the world's first commercial wave farm. It is located three miles (5 km) offshore near Póvoa de Varzim north of Porto. The farm uses three Pelamis wave energy converters to convert the motion of the ocean surface waves into electricity. The farm was