What was Portuguese territory in the New World?

Portuguese territory in the New World was primarily concentrated in Brazil. They also had some smaller settlements in Africa, which were often connected to their Brazilian holdings. Here's a breakdown:

Brazil:

* Claim: The Portuguese claimed a vast territory along the eastern coast of South America, extending from the mouth of the Amazon River to the southern tip of the continent. This claim was solidified by the Treaty of Tordesillas in 1494, which divided the New World between Portugal and Spain.

* Settlements: Portuguese settlements in Brazil began in the early 16th century, focusing on sugar plantations and the exploration of natural resources like gold and diamonds. They established major cities like Salvador, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo.

* Colonial Period: Portugal controlled Brazil for over three centuries, from the early 16th century to the 19th century. Brazil eventually gained independence in 1822, but the Portuguese influence on Brazilian culture and language remains significant.

Africa:

* Settlements: Portugal established settlements along the coast of West Africa primarily for trade, focusing on the slave trade and the extraction of resources like ivory, gold, and timber. These settlements were often connected to the Brazilian sugar plantations, which relied heavily on enslaved labor from Africa.

* Notable Settlements: Portuguese settlements in Africa included Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, and São Tomé and Príncipe.

It's important to note that while Portugal controlled extensive territories in the New World, their presence was not always uniform. Some regions remained sparsely populated or were contested by other European powers. The Portuguese colonial experience in both Brazil and Africa left a lasting mark on these regions, shaping their history, cultures, and societies.