Portuguese officials are keenly aware of their checkered legacy. They were the first Europeans to colonize in Asia, driven by a lust for adventure and discovery, and a desire to spread the Christianity that had helped free Portugal of Moorish, Muslim rule. But for all the centuries they have lingered here, the Portuguese have left behind no lasting political culture. Portugal's president, Jorge Sampaio, said that in the last decade Macao had taken on many of the hallmarks of a liberal Western state, including the rule of law, freedom of religion and a free press. For Sunday's ceremony, the departing colonial masters from a small nation on the other side of the world have produced the trappings of a momentous occasion.
Officials say the translucent building is meant to resemble a Chinese lantern.
In truth, it looks more like a giant, softly lighted bathtub. But forming people takes time. We really did what we thought was best for Macao. Mr. Rangel's sense of conflict is deeply felt. But he also served in the Portuguese Army as an infantry commander in Guinea-Bissau, in West Africa.