Portuguese Empire

Portuguese Empire

The Portuguese Empire (Portuguese: Império Português), also known as the Portuguese Overseas (Ultramar Português) or the Portuguese Colonial Empire (Império Colonial Português), was one of the largest and longest-lived empires in world history. It existed for almost six centuries, from the capture of Ceuta in 1415, to the handover of Macau to China in 1999.

Origins

The origins of the Portuguese Empire can be traced back to the Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries. Under the leadership of Prince Henry the Navigator, Portuguese explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Bartolomeu Dias began exploring the coasts of Africa, establishing trading posts and forts along the way.

Expansion

The Portuguese Empire expanded across the globe, with territories in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The empire's expansion was driven by a desire for new trade routes and resources, as well as a mission to spread Christianity. This led to the establishment of numerous colonies, including Brazil, Mozambique, and Goa.

Decline and Dissolution

The decline of the Portuguese Empire began in the late 16th century, when the country was united with Spain under the Iberian Union. This period of decline continued into the 20th century, culminating in the Carnation Revolution of 1974, which led to the dissolution of the empire and the establishment of the Portuguese Republic.

Legacy

The legacy of the Portuguese Empire is evident in the widespread use of the Portuguese language, the prevalence of Roman Catholicism, and the cultural influence of Portugal in its former colonies.

See also

• History of Portugal
• Colonialism
• Decolonization

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