Portugal
Portugal, officially known as the Portuguese Republic, is a country located on the Iberian Peninsula, in southwestern Europe. It borders Spain to the north and east, and faces the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south. Here's a detailed overview:
Geography
Portugal spans over 92,212 square kilometers, making it the 111th largest country by land area. Its coastline stretches over 1,793 kilometers, providing numerous beaches and maritime activities. The country includes two autonomous regions, the Azores and Madeira, which are archipelagos in the Atlantic Ocean.
History
- Prehistoric Era: Evidence of human presence in Portugal dates back to the Paleolithic era.
- Roman and Visigothic Rule: The area was part of the Roman Empire and later the Visigothic Kingdom.
- Islamic Rule: From the 8th to the 12th century, Portugal was under Muslim rule following the Umayyad conquest of Hispania.
- Reconquista: Portugal was established as an independent kingdom in 1139 by Afonso Henriques during the Christian Reconquista from Muslim rule.
- Age of Discovery: Portugal became a leading maritime power, exploring and establishing colonies across Africa, Asia, and South America, with figures like Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan.
- Colonial Empire: The Portuguese Empire was one of the longest-lived colonial powers, lasting from the 15th to the 20th century.
- 20th Century: Portugal experienced a military dictatorship from 1926 to 1974, followed by the Carnation Revolution which led to the establishment of a democratic republic.
Culture
Portuguese culture is rich and diverse, influenced by its history of seafaring, exploration, and colonial interactions:
Economy
Portugal has a mixed economy with significant sectors in:
- Services, particularly tourism and financial services.
- Agriculture, with products like wine, olives, and cork.
- Industry, including textiles, footwear, and machinery.
Government and Politics
Portugal operates under a semi-presidential system, where the President is the head of state and the Prime Minister is the head of government. It is a member of the European Union, NATO, and the United Nations.
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