Portugal

Definition

Portugal is a country located in Southern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. It played a significant role during the Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries, becoming one of the world's major economic, political, and colonial powers.

Related terms

Age of Discovery: This was a period from the early 15th century to the late 18th century when European powers explored and mapped much of the rest of the world.

Colonialism: The policy or practice by which a powerful country directly controls less powerful countries and uses their resources to increase its own power and wealth.

Vasco da Gama: A Portuguese explorer who was one of the most successful in the Age of Discovery and commander of the first ships to sail directly from Europe to India.