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Essay / Portugal: A Historical and Cultural Overview
Table of ContentsHistorical BackgroundCultural InfluenceGlobal ImpactConclusionLocated in the southwestern region of Europe, Portugal is a country with a rich history and vibrant culture. From its ancient roots to its modern influence, Portugal has made important contributions to the world in areas such as exploration, art and cuisine. This essay will provide an overview of Portugal's history, culture and impact on the world stage. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why violent video games should not be banned”? Get the original essay Historical background Portugal's history dates back to the early Paleolithic era, with evidence of human presence on the Iberian Peninsula there 400,000 years ago. The region was then inhabited by Celtic and Iberian tribes before being conquered by the Romans in 218 BC. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the region was ruled by various Germanic tribes before coming under Muslim control in the 8th century. The Reconquista, a period of Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula, saw the emergence of Portugal as an independent kingdom in 1139 under the leadership of Afonso I. The country expanded its territory through exploration and conquest, establishing a global empire in the 15th and 16th centuries. Around this time, Portugal became a major player in the Age of Discovery, with explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan paving the way for the country's maritime domination. Cultural influence Portugal's cultural heritage is a mixture of influences from its diverse history. The country's architecture, art, music and literature reflect a blend of Roman, Moorish and Gothic traditions, as well as elements of its global explorations. The Manueline style, for example, is a unique Portuguese architectural style that emerged during the Age of Discovery, characterized by intricate designs and maritime motifs. Portuguese cuisine is also an important aspect of the country's culture, with dishes such as bacalhau (salted cod), caldo verde (green soup) and pastéis de nata (cream tarts) being popular both nationally. than international. The influence of Portugal's former colonies, notably in Africa, Asia and South America, has also contributed to the diversity of its culinary traditions. Global impactPortugal's global influence is visible in its former colonies, notably Brazil, Angola, Mozambique and East Timor. , where the Portuguese language and cultural traditions continue to thrive. The country's exploration and colonization of these regions had a lasting impact on their languages, religions and social structures, shaping their identity in significant ways. Portugal's contributions on the world stage also extend to the arts and sciences. The country has produced renowned figures such as poet Luís de Camões, novelist José Saramago, and composer Carlos Seixas, all of whom left a lasting mark in their respective fields. In science, Portuguese navigators and cartographers played a crucial role in advancing the world's understanding of geography and navigation in the Age of Discovery. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get Custom EssayConclusionIn conclusion, Portugal's history, culture and impact on the world stage are diverse and far-reaching. From its beginnings as a kingdom to its role as a major player in the Age of Discovery, Portugal has left an indelible mark on the world. His contributions to exploration, art, cuisine and language continue to be..