Portuguese

Definition

The Portuguese refers to the people, culture, and language originating from Portugal, a country located in Southwestern Europe. In AP World History: Modern, it often refers to the period of Portuguese exploration and colonial expansion from the 15th to 17th centuries.

Related terms

Age of Discovery: This was a period from the 15th to 18th century when European powers including Portugal started exploring the world by sea in search of new trading routes.

Vasco da Gama: He was a Portuguese explorer who became one of the most successful in the Age of Discovery by being the first person to sail directly from Europe to India.

Portuguese Empire: This was composed of all territories around the world that were colonized by Portugal from the 15th century onwards.