Portuguese Colonial Empire

The Portuguese Colonial Empire was one of the first global empires, established in the 15th century during the Age of Discovery. Portugal expanded its influence by exploring and establishing trade routes, territories, and colonies in Africa, Asia, and South America, including Brazil. Notable for its naval prowess, the empire played a significant role in the spice trade and the exchange of cultures. At its height in the 17th century, it spanned continents, but began to decline in the 19th century due to competition from other European powers and independence movements in its colonies.