Question

How did Portuguese exploration lead to the creation of a trading empire?

• The Portuguese established forts and took over some cities that were centers of trade which later connected into a large trading empire.

Answer 1

The Portuguese began exploring new trade routes in the 1400s, establishing trading posts and outposts along the African coast and in Asia. Over time, they extended their reach to India and the East Indies. Through strategic alliances, they gained control over many of the trading routes and ports in the region, creating a vast trading empire that stretched from Africa to the East Indies. They used their control of these trading routes to monopolize trade and increase their wealth and power.