Portugal

800 BCE

Arrival of the Lusitanian Tribes

The Lusitanians and other Celtic-related tribes established stable settlements across the territory that is now modern-day Portugal. They formed a distinct cultural identity that resisted Roman expansion for centuries.

1139

Independence of the Kingdom of Portugal

Following the Battle of Ourique, Afonso Henriques was proclaimed the first King of Portugal. This marked the official beginning of Portugal as an independent sovereign kingdom.

1415

Conquest of Ceuta and Discovery Era

The capture of Ceuta in North Africa by Portuguese forces initiated the Age of Discovery. This period led to the mapping of global trade routes and the expansion of the Portuguese Empire.

1498

Vasco da Gama Reaches India

Vasco da Gama successfully completed the first sea voyage from Europe to India by rounding the Cape of Good Hope. This discovery transformed global trade and established Portugal as a major maritime power.

1580

The Iberian Union

Following the Portuguese succession crisis, Philip II of Spain ascended to the Portuguese throne, creating a personal union of the two crowns. This period lasted until 1640 when Portugal regained its full independence.

1755

The Great Lisbon Earthquake

A massive earthquake, followed by a tsunami and fires, destroyed much of Lisbon and changed the course of Portuguese history. The subsequent reconstruction under the Marquis of Pombal modernized the city and the state administration.

1822

Independence of Brazil

Brazil declared its independence from Portugal, significantly reducing the size and economic reach of the Portuguese Empire. This transition forced a realignment of Portuguese foreign and colonial policy.

1910

Proclamation of the Portuguese Republic

A successful revolution overthrew the centuries-old monarchy, leading to the establishment of the First Portuguese Republic. This shift introduced significant secular and democratic reforms.

1933

Beginning of the Estado Novo Regime

António de Oliveira Salazar established a long-standing authoritarian regime known as the Estado Novo. The government maintained strict control over political and social life for several decades.

1974

The Carnation Revolution

A military-led coup peacefully ended the Estado Novo regime, ushering in a transition to democracy. This event also facilitated the rapid decolonization of Portugal's African territories.

1986

Accession to the European Economic Community

Portugal officially joined the European Economic Community, accelerating its modernization and economic integration with Europe. This marked a pivotal moment in the nation's post-dictatorship stability.

2024

General Election and Government Change

Following the resignation of Antonio Costa, early legislative elections were held in March 2024. The Democratic Alliance won the most seats, leading to the formation of a new government led by Luís Montenegro.