Portuguese trade refers to the commercial activities and exchanges of goods conducted by Portugal, particularly during its period of maritime dominance in the 15th and 16th centuries. This included the establishment of trade routes, colonies, and trading posts around the world.
Related terms
Colonialism: Colonialism refers to the policy or practice of acquiring control over other territories, often for economic exploitation. During their maritime dominance, Portugal established colonies in Africa, Asia, and South America for trade purposes.
Caravel: A caravel is a type of small and highly maneuverable sailing ship that was developed by the Portuguese during their maritime expansion. Caravels played a crucial role in facilitating long-distance voyages for trade.
Mercantilism: Mercantilism is an economic theory prevalent during this era that emphasized accumulating wealth through maximizing exports while minimizing imports. The Portuguese adopted mercantilist policies to enhance their trade dominance.