The Portuguese Empire

The Portuguese Empire was one of the earliest global colonial powers, beginning in the 15th century. Portugal explored and established territories across Africa, Asia, and South America, notably in Brazil, parts of India, and Africa's coast. Their focus was on trade, especially spices, gold, and later slaves. They built a vast network of ships, forts, and trading posts to control key routes. The empire influenced local cultures, spread Christianity, and contributed to global exchange. By the 19th century, its holdings shrank, but Portugal's colonial legacy remains significant today.