With the purpose of describing the constant challenges that Portuguese society has faced regarding the application of science and technology, it was necessary to determine the criteria, not only to translate the “art of the engineer” as a creator, entrepreneur and innovator, but also to discuss the context of the technological development of engineering in Portugal, in order to better understand the “technological innovation moments” which have occurred in the most recent decades of Portuguese history.

On the basis of such a framework, criteria were set up for use in the design of the project and in the selection of specific subjects to be approached, as follows:

• Historical importance for the development of the context required to promote engineering and innovation, and to foster a science-based technological culture;
• Impact on the Portuguese economy and society;
• Importance for the development of engineering;
• Technological importance and degree of innovation.

Resulting from the application of these criteria, “Engenho e Obra - Engineering in Portugal throughout the 20th century” is shown in terms of a chronological data matrix (comprising the chronological treatment of the political setting, economic policy, the economic and social context, the teaching of engineering and research and major international technological developments), and of aspects intrinsic to the development of the main engineering disciplines.