Portuguese Overseas Discoveries

In the early 15th century, Portugal looked seaward for expansion. New ships and innovations in navigational techniques helped to overcome the many challenges presented by each of the voyages. These were among the first European steps towards globalization to establish new trade routes and engage in the African slave trade. The first European discovery of Brazil occurred in 1500. History students at Florida Atlantic learn about the colonial history of the Americas through the study of maps, artifacts and primary sources.