About
Maria de Lourdes Ruivo da Silva de Matos Pintasilgo was a Portuguese chemical engineer and politician. She holds the distinction of being the first and only woman to serve as Prime Minister of Portugal. She was also the second woman to serve as prime minister in Western Europe, following Margaret Thatcher. Pintasilgo was a prominent figure in Portuguese politics and a pioneer for women in leadership roles.
Career Timeline
Secretary of State
Appointed Secretary of State for Social Affairs in Portugal.
Minister of Social Affairs
Named Minister of Social Affairs, expanding her influence.
Prime Minister of Portugal
Appointed as Portugal's first female Prime Minister.
UNESCO Ambassador
Named Portugal's ambassador to UNESCO.
Presidential Candidate
Runs for President of Portugal, but loses the election.
Death in Lisbon
Maria de Lourdes Pintasilgo dies, her impact on Portuguese politics remembered.
Legacy as Pioneer
Remembered as a pioneer for women in Portuguese politics, though largely forgotten on the world stage.
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Last updated: February 25, 2026