Which statement best describes the earliest slave trade by the Portuguese? (1 point) Responses The Portuguese introduced slavery to African countries so Africans could make a profit. The Portuguese introduced slavery to African countries so Africans could make a profit. The Portuguese changed the way slaves were traded in order to make a larger profit. The Portuguese changed the way slaves were traded in order to make a larger profit. The Portuguese diverted some of the existing slave trade from central Africa to the coast. The Portuguese diverted some of the existing slave trade from central Africa to the coast. The Portuguese were reluctant to participate in the slave trade since their king banned slavery.

1 answer

The statement that best describes the earliest slave trade by the Portuguese is: "The Portuguese diverted some of the existing slave trade from central Africa to the coast."

This reflects the historical context in which the Portuguese initially engaged in the slave trade by establishing trading posts along the African coast, thereby redirecting existing trade routes and intensifying the slave trade for their own economic interests.