🇪🇺ap european history review

Portuguese overseas expansion

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2027 exam
Verified for the 2027 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

The process of Portuguese maritime exploration, colonization, and trade establishment in Africa, Asia, and the Atlantic world from the 15th century onward, characterized by early exploration and trading post establishment.

AP course connection

Topic 1.6: 1.6 Age of Exploration

Unit 1

"Portuguese overseas expansion" also found in: