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@ Nicolau Backup
2025-06-02 11:48:00- The Foundation (12th Century)
The territory that would become Portugal was originally part of the Kingdom of León and Castile. But in 1128, the young nobleman Afonso Henriques confronted his own mother at the Battle of São Mamede, taking control of the County of Portugal (Condado Portucalense).
In 1139, after winning the Battle of Ourique, he declared himself King of Portugal. Independence was recognized in 1143 by the King of León and confirmed by the Pope in 1179.
- Expansion and the discoveries (14th–16th Centuries)
In the following centuries, Portugal consolidated its territory and set out to sea. The 15th century marked the beginning of the Portuguese Discoveries:
🚢 1419–1420 – Discovery of Madeira and the Azores 🚢 1488 – Bartolomeu Dias rounds the Cape of Good Hope 🚢 1498 – Vasco da Gama reaches India 🚢 1500 – Pedro Álvares Cabral discovers Brazil
During this period, Portugal created a vast maritime empire with colonies in Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Oceania.
- Iberian Union and the restoration (1580–1640)
In 1580, after a dynastic crisis caused by the death of King Sebastian, Portugal came under Spanish rule in what is known as the Iberian Union. For 60 years, the Spanish kings ruled Portugal until, in 1640, a revolt led by John IV restored Portuguese independence.
- The decline of the Empire and the 1755 earthquake
The 18th century was marked by the Lisbon earthquake of 1755, one of the greatest disasters of its time, which destroyed much of the capital. The Marquis of Pombal led the country’s reconstruction and modernization.
The empire began to weaken, culminating in the independence of Brazil in 1822.
- Wars, republic, and dictatorship (19th–20th Centuries)
Portugal faced internal crises and took part in World War I. In 1910, the monarchy fell and the Portuguese Republic was proclaimed.
In the 20th century, the country lived under the Estado Novo dictatorship (1933–1974), led by António de Oliveira Salazar. In 1974, the Carnation Revolution brought democracy, and the following year, the last African colonies gained independence.
- Modern Portugal (21st Century)
In 1986, Portugal joined the European Union, marking a period of growth and modernization. Today, it is a democratic country with a rich culture and a history that continues to inspire the world.
- And what about the islands?
The Autonomous Regions of Madeira and the Azores play a fundamental role in Portuguese identity. Discovered in the 15th century, they have been part of Portugal ever since and have their own regional governments.
Madeira is known for its wine and stunning landscapes, while the Azores are famous for their volcanic nature and unique culture.
Thank you very much for reading this far. I hope everything is well with you, and sending a big hug from your favorite writer from Madeira. Long live freedom!