Historical Encyclopedia
The Age of Discoveries, also known as the Age of Great Geographical Discoveries, spans the period from the 15th to the 17th century. This era was marked by significant maritime expeditions, exploration of new lands, and the expansion of European powers' horizons. Portugal, being at the forefront of this era, played a key role in the discovery of new sea routes and the colonization of various regions of the world.
Against the backdrop of the fall of Constantinople in 1453 and the increasing Muslim expansion in Europe, the Portuguese sought to find new trade routes to avoid Muslim intermediaries and strengthen their commercial power. Portugal, due to its geographical location on the western coast of Europe, was well-positioned for maritime exploration.
Additionally, this period saw a blossoming interest in sciences, technologies, and cartography. The development of navigational tools, such as the astrolabe and compass, allowed sailors to more accurately determine their position at sea. The Portuguese also began using maps based on more accurate measurements and observations, contributing to successful expeditions.
One of the key figures of this era was Prince Henry the Navigator (1394–1460). Although he himself did not undertake long voyages, his contribution to the development of Portuguese navigation was immense. Henry founded a navigation school in Sagres, where navigators, cartographers, and astronomers were trained.
Under his guidance, expeditions along the coast of Africa began, which was an important step toward discovering new sea routes. The Portuguese explored the Gulf of Guinea and eventually reached the shores of modern-day Senegal and Gambia. These expeditions led to the discovery of new lands and the establishment of trade with local tribes.
In 1498, Vasco da Gama undertook his famous voyage to India, becoming the first European to reach the Indian shores by sea. He rounded the Cape of Good Hope and arrived in Calicut, where he established important trade connections, opening access to spices and other goods from the East.
This success was a tremendous achievement for Portugal and marked the beginning of the Portuguese colonial empire. The Portuguese established trading posts along the Indian coast as well as in the Moluccas, known as the “Spice Islands.” These discoveries provided Portugal with a strategic advantage in international trade and positioned it as a major player in the global market.
In 1500, the Portuguese navigator Pedro Álvares Cabral discovered Brazil, accidentally landing on its shores during his voyage to India. The Portuguese began colonizing this new land, and soon Brazil became an important part of the Portuguese empire.
The colonization of Brazil led to significant changes in the economic and social structure of the region. The Portuguese began developing plantations, especially sugar, using slave labor, which became a primary source of profit for the metropolis. Brazil soon transformed into one of the largest producers of sugar in the world, leaving a deep impact on Portuguese culture and language.
Despite significant successes, the Portuguese empire faced serious difficulties in the 17th century. Rivalries with Spain, the Netherlands, and England over control of trade routes and colonies led to conflicts and wars. The Portuguese could not maintain their positions, resulting in the loss of many colonies.
In 1580, Portugal was united with Spain under the rule of Spanish King Philip II, which led to a decline in the economic situation and loss of independence. However, in 1640, Portugal restored its independence, but the empire had already weakened significantly, and its colonial policies had lost their former power.
The Age of Discoveries in Portugal left a vivid mark on world history. It led to the creation of a vast colonial empire, making Portugal one of the first global powers. The cultural exchanges established during this time had a profound influence on many countries, both in Europe and in Africa, Asia, and South America.
The Portuguese language became one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, and its influence can be seen in countries such as Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, and others. Portuguese culture, traditions, and customs that emerged as a result of these discoveries continue to live and evolve in the modern world.
The Age of Discoveries in Portugal was an important period in world history, which not only changed the political map of the world but also had a profound impact on culture, economy, and society. This time of discoveries, adventures, and scientific inquiries laid the foundation for future generations, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire to this day.