Portuguese Empire

Definition

The Portuguese Empire was one of the first global empires, founded in the 15th century, characterized by its extensive maritime exploration and colonization of territories across Africa, Asia, and South America. It played a crucial role in shaping global trade networks and establishing the foundations of European colonialism, marked by technological advancements in navigation and shipbuilding that enabled long-distance sea travel.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Portuguese Empire began with the Age of Discovery in the 15th century, focusing on maritime exploration along the African coast and into Asia.
2. Key figures like Prince Henry the Navigator played a vital role in promoting exploration and establishing schools for navigation, which led to significant technological advancements.
3. The empire's vast trading network included valuable commodities such as spices, gold, and sugar, which fueled economic growth in Portugal.
4. Portugal established several colonies, including Brazil in South America, Angola in Africa, and Goa in India, which contributed to its status as a leading maritime power.
5. The decline of the Portuguese Empire in the 17th century was due to factors such as competition from other European powers, economic challenges, and political instability within Portugal itself.

Review Questions

• How did technological advancements contribute to the expansion of the Portuguese Empire during the Age of Discovery?
  • Technological advancements such as the development of the caravel, improved navigation instruments like the astrolabe, and advancements in cartography allowed Portuguese explorers to sail further and more accurately than ever before. These innovations made it possible to navigate uncharted waters along Africa’s coastline and establish sea routes to Asia. As a result, Portugal was able to establish a vast empire based on exploration and trade.
• Discuss the significance of the Treaty of Tordesillas in shaping the territorial claims of Portugal during its imperial expansion.
  • The Treaty of Tordesillas was significant because it officially divided newly discovered lands between Portugal and Spain, thereby legitimizing their colonial ambitions. This treaty helped prevent conflict between the two powers over territorial claims and established a clear boundary for exploration. As a result, Portugal secured control over key regions in Africa and Brazil while allowing Spain to focus on territories in the Americas.
• Evaluate the factors that led to both the rise and decline of the Portuguese Empire in relation to its global trading network.
  • The rise of the Portuguese Empire was fueled by its strategic location for maritime trade routes, pioneering navigational technology, and establishment of colonies that provided access to lucrative resources. However, its decline can be attributed to increased competition from other European powers like England and France, economic mismanagement, and internal strife. These factors disrupted its global trading network, leading to a gradual loss of territories and influence by the 17th century.

Related terms

Caravel: A small, highly maneuverable sailing ship developed by the Portuguese in the 15th century that allowed for exploration along the African coast and across the Atlantic Ocean.

Treaty of Tordesillas: An agreement between Portugal and Spain, established in 1494, that divided newly discovered lands outside Europe between the two countries along a meridian 370 leagues west of the Cape Verde islands.

Lisbon: The capital city of Portugal and a major center for trade and maritime activities during the height of the Portuguese Empire, serving as a hub for explorers and merchants.