Manuel I of Portugal

Manuel I of Portugal, also known as Manuel the Fortunate, reigned from 1495 to 1521. His rule marked Portugal's Age of Discoveries, during which explorers like Vasco da Gama expanded trade routes to India and Africa. He oversaw the establishment of a vast overseas empire, boosting Portugal's wealth and influence. Manuel promoted cultural growth and political stability but also faced challenges like economic dependence on overseas revenues and the beginning of colonial conflicts. His reign is considered a high point in Portuguese history, fostering global exploration and economic prosperity.