

229. Portugal: Gold, Earthquakes, and Brazil (Part 3)
19 snips Sep 7, 2022
Delve into Portugal's rich history, from the catastrophic 1755 Lisbon earthquake that reshaped the nation, to philosophical debates spurred by its aftermath. Discover the transformative journey of the Portuguese royal family as they fled to Brazil, balancing colonial interests with rising independence sentiments. Explore the radical reforms of the Marques de Pombal and the architectural legacy of Lisbon’s rebuilding, all while navigating the turmoil of the Napoleonic Wars and the complexities of international alliances.
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The Failed Liberation of Portugal
- In 1589, Queen Elizabeth I sent an armada to Portugal to liberate them from Spanish rule.
- The mission, led by Essex and Drake, failed due to poor planning and ultimately harmed the Portuguese.
The First World War
- The Dutch-Portuguese War, also known as the Spice War, can be considered the first true world war.
- It spanned the globe, impacting Portuguese colonies from Brazil to the East Indies.
Catherine of Braganza and the Unbuilt Statue
- Catherine of Braganza, a Portuguese princess, married Charles II of England, popularizing tea and porcelain.
- A proposed statue of her in Queens, NY, supported by Donald Trump, was never built due to her links to the slave trade.