The social impact of the Acclamation War: Elvas from 1641 to 1668

This article examines the social changes brought about by the Acclamation War in Elvas, the principal military stronghold of the Portuguese province of the Alentejo, regarded as being key to the defence of the kingdom during the era. Reference is made to the burdens borne by local people owing to the war, which were made all the heavier in the case of Elvas due to the huge number of soldiers billeted in the city and also because of the geographical proximity of the Spanish military stronghold of Badajoz. Relations between soldiers and civilians are examined: at times there was hostility and conflict; but there was also co-operation and mutual respect, friendships were forged and family ties were created.