European countries that established and maintained colonies in various parts of the world, primarily during the Age of Exploration and the era of imperialism.
Related terms
Imperialism: The policy or practice of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, use of military force, or economic dominance.
Age of Exploration: A period from the 15th to the 17th centuries when European explorers set out to discover new trade routes, resources, and territories around the globe.
Decolonization: The process by which colonies gained independence from their ruling imperial powers.