History of Portugal

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Iberia 300BC-en

History of Portugal traces the development of the region, now known as Portugal, from prehistoric times to the present day. Portugal, located on the Iberian Peninsula, has a rich and diverse history that has been shaped by various peoples, cultures, and events over millennia.

Prehistoric Portugal

The earliest human presence in Portugal can be traced back to the Paleolithic period, with notable archaeological sites such as the Côa Valley and Escoural Cave showcasing early human art and habitation. The Neolithic period introduced the construction of megalithic monuments, including dolmens and menhirs, which are scattered across the country.

Roman Lusitania and Gallaecia

Portugal's history during antiquity is marked by the Roman conquest in the 2nd century BC. The Romans divided the territory into two provinces: Lusitania, roughly corresponding to modern-day Portugal, and Gallaecia, which included northern Portugal and Galicia in Spain. Roman influence brought advances in agriculture, architecture, and infrastructure, with remnants of this era visible in places like Conímbriga and Évora.

Germanic Kingdoms and the Visigothic Rule

Following the decline of the Roman Empire, the Iberian Peninsula saw the arrival of Germanic tribes such as the Suebi and the Visigoths. The Suebi established a kingdom in what is now northern Portugal and Galicia, while the Visigoths ruled over a vast territory that included Portugal. The Visigothic period lasted until the early 8th century, when the Moors from North Africa invaded the peninsula.

Moorish and Reconquista Era

The Moorish occupation of Portugal began in the 8th century, introducing Islamic culture, architecture, and advancements in science and agriculture to the region. However, the Christian kingdoms in the north began the Reconquista, a series of campaigns to reclaim territory from the Moors. This period saw the emergence of the County of Portugal, under the tutelage of the Kingdom of León, which would later become the Kingdom of Portugal in 1139 with the crowning of Afonso Henriques as king.

Age of Discovery

The 15th and 16th centuries marked Portugal's Age of Discovery, during which Portuguese explorers, such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan, played a key role in mapping uncharted parts of the world and establishing sea routes to India, Africa, and the Americas. This era of exploration and colonization established Portugal as a major economic, military, and political power.

Dynastic Crisis and Union with Spain

The death of King Sebastian of Portugal in 1578 led to a succession crisis, culminating in the Iberian Union (1580-1640), during which the crowns of Portugal and Spain were united under the Spanish Habsburgs. This period saw a decline in Portugal's independence and economic strength.

Restoration and Enlightenment

The Portuguese Restoration War (1640-1668) ended the Iberian Union, restoring Portugal's sovereignty under the Braganza dynasty. The following centuries saw efforts to modernize the country, influenced by the Enlightenment, although Portugal's global influence continued to wane.

19th Century to Present

The 19th and 20th centuries were marked by political upheaval, including the Liberal Revolution of 1820, the establishment of a constitutional monarchy, and the Portuguese Republican Revolution of 1910, which abolished the monarchy in favor of a republic. The mid-20th century saw the Estado Novo, a corporatist authoritarian regime led by António de Oliveira Salazar. The Carnation Revolution of 1974 ended the Estado Novo, initiating a period of democratic reform and decolonization.

Today, Portugal is a democratic republic, member of the European Union and the United Nations, with a high standard of living and a vibrant culture that continues to be influenced by its rich history.