How did other countries respond when Portugal built a global empire

Answer 1

When Portugal started building its global empire in the 15th century, other countries had different responses depending on their own geopolitical interests, relationships with Portugal, and ambitions for overseas expansion. Here are some examples of different countries' responses:

1. Spain: Initially, Portugal and Spain were the two major rivals in the exploration and colonization of the New World. However, they later reached an agreement known as the Treaty of Tordesillas in 1494, which divided the newly discovered lands outside Europe between the two nations. This agreement allowed Portugal to continue its exploration and colonization, although Spain eventually surpassed Portugal in terms of territory and influence in the Americas.

2. England: Initially, England relied on Portugal for trade relations and was interested in tapping into the lucrative spice trade that Portugal controlled. England also tried to follow Portugal's example and establish its own colonies, most notably English settlements in North America. However, by the 17th century, England began challenging Portugal's monopoly on various trade routes and colonies, leading to conflicts and competition between both nations.

3. The Netherlands: The Dutch, seeking to challenge the Portuguese and Spanish dominance in overseas territories and trade, established the Dutch East India Company (VOC) in 1602. The VOC started competing with Portugal in Asia, challenging their control over trade routes and eventually displacing the Portuguese from their strongholds in the Indian Ocean.

4. France: France initially showed interest in Portugal's overseas empire and exploration, attempting to establish its own colonies and outposts. However, France's main focus was on continental Europe, and as rivalries escalated within Europe, France focused more on its European possessions rather than global expansion.

5. Ottoman Empire: The Ottomans were initially unconcerned about Portugal's overseas expansion, as they were focused on consolidating their own empire in the Middle East and North Africa. However, as the Portuguese presence grew in the Indian Ocean and threatened the Ottoman-controlled Red Sea trade routes, tensions arose, and occasional conflicts occurred.

It is essential to note that throughout history, interactions between countries were nuanced and subject to change, influenced by political, economic, and social factors. The responses mentioned above provide a general overview of how some countries reacted to Portugal's global empire, but there were certainly more complex dynamics and unique situations between individual nations.