About Marcelino da Mata
Lived 1940 – 2021 (aged 80). Marcelino da Mata was a Portuguese military personnel.
Legacy
Within Portuguese military circles, da Mata is recognized as the most decorated soldier in the country’s history. His career is frequently cited in discussions of elite commando operations during the Portuguese Colonial War.
Historians and commentators note that his legacy is intertwined with the complex and contested history of Portuguese colonialism and the independence struggles in Africa.
Decorations
Order of the Tower and Sword, of Valor, Loyalty and Merit Five War Crosses Campaign Medals for Overseas Service
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Important facts
Related people
Same field, nearest in time
Contemporaries
People whose lives overlapped Marcelino da Mata's
Frequently asked questions
Who was Marcelino da Mata?
Portuguese military personnel
When was Marcelino da Mata born?
Marcelino da Mata was born on 7 May 1940 in Guinea-Bissau.
When did Marcelino da Mata die?
Marcelino da Mata died on 11 February 2021 in Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca.
What was Marcelino da Mata's occupation?
Marcelino da Mata was a military personnel.
What nationality was Marcelino da Mata?
Marcelino da Mata was Portuguese.
Sources & further reading
· Wikipedia: Marcelino da Mata
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Marcelino da Mata. https://biography.guide/marcelino-da-mata/
MLA: "Marcelino da Mata." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/marcelino-da-mata/.
Chicago: "Marcelino da Mata." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/marcelino-da-mata/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-23 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
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