The early colonial empires of Portugal, Spain, and England parallel each other in
many different aspects. However, each empire has specific unique characteristics that create
there individual legacies. Their motives varied economically and spiritually. These varying
factors lead to different relations with the Native Americans and Africans. Yet, each country
possesed the idea that their culture was superior to the Indians and Africans, and desired to
colonize areas that were rich in natural resources.
The Portuguese voyages demonstrated the practicability of sailing long distances. Once
this inconcievable feat was accomplished the Portuguese were able to set up trading posts in
Africa. Trade primarily revolved around gold and slaves. These trading posts were eventually
opened up to the English and Spanish, which served to be a great factor in colonizing their
empires. Also, plantations were created on some islands in Africa where slaves did the labor
and the Portuguese were able to make large amounts of profit.
Portugal's colonization of the
Americas were set up mainly in present day Brazil. The Treaty or Tordesillas declared that
the New World would be divided between Spain and Portugal.The main motive for Portuguese
expansion was to purify their subjects. All of these ventures were funded by their government,
which desired to extend their slave trading to the Americas in attempt to Glorify their Empire.
The Spanish were also funded by their government and made a colossal amount
of money for Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand. Spain and Portugal were fueding rivals.
They both shared the idea of christianizing the people of the new world. In addition to this
the Spanish quested for glory and gold. These economic motives combined with well trained
conquistadors proved to be vital in glorifying the Spanish empire. Also, the Spanish men
were obligated to marry Indians due...