History of Portugal
Portugal is a country in Europe that was first inhabited by people called Celts and Iberians. Later on, the Romans came and ruled the land for hundreds of years. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Visigoths took over, followed by the Moors from North Africa in the 8th century.
In 1143, Portugal became its own kingdom under King Afonso Henriques, who fought against the Moors and established a Christian state in the area. Portugal then became a major player in the Age of Discovery, which was a time when Europeans were traveling around the world to find new lands and treasures.
Portuguese explorers like Vasco da Gama, who sailed to India, and Ferdinand Magellan, who led the first circumnavigation of the world, helped to establish Portugal as a global power. During this time, Portugal also established colonies in Africa, South America, and Asia.
However, this period of prosperity did not last forever. Portugal eventually lost its colonies and fell under dictatorship in the mid-20th century. The country finally became a democracy in 1974 and joined the European Union in 1986.
Today, Portugal is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional cuisine (including pastries like pasteis de nata), and historic cities like Lisbon and Porto. Its rich history and culture continue to attract tourists from around the world.
In 1143, Portugal became its own kingdom under King Afonso Henriques, who fought against the Moors and established a Christian state in the area. Portugal then became a major player in the Age of Discovery, which was a time when Europeans were traveling around the world to find new lands and treasures.
Portuguese explorers like Vasco da Gama, who sailed to India, and Ferdinand Magellan, who led the first circumnavigation of the world, helped to establish Portugal as a global power. During this time, Portugal also established colonies in Africa, South America, and Asia.
However, this period of prosperity did not last forever. Portugal eventually lost its colonies and fell under dictatorship in the mid-20th century. The country finally became a democracy in 1974 and joined the European Union in 1986.
Today, Portugal is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional cuisine (including pastries like pasteis de nata), and historic cities like Lisbon and Porto. Its rich history and culture continue to attract tourists from around the world.
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