Lisbon

Definition

Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal and one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, known for its rich maritime history and as a central hub for trade during the Age of Discovery. Its strategic location on the Atlantic coast made it a pivotal point for exchange between Europe, Africa, and the Americas, significantly impacting trade networks and patterns of exchange.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lisbon became a major center for trade following Portugal's expansion into Africa and the Americas in the late 15th century.
2. The Treaty of Tordesillas in 1494, which divided newly discovered lands between Spain and Portugal, further enhanced Lisbon's role in global trade.
3. The city was devastated by a massive earthquake in 1755, which caused significant destruction but also led to urban reforms and rebuilding efforts that modernized Lisbon.
4. Lisbon was home to the Casa da Índia, an institution established to manage trade with India and other territories, which played a crucial role in regulating commerce during Portugal's maritime dominance.
5. The city's strategic harbor facilitated the growth of a diverse economy that included not just trade but also shipbuilding and fishing industries.

Review Questions

• How did Lisbon's geographic location contribute to its development as a center for trade during the Age of Discovery?
  • Lisbon's geographic position on the Atlantic coast made it an ideal hub for maritime trade routes linking Europe, Africa, and the Americas. This advantageous location allowed Portuguese explorers to launch voyages that established new connections and trade partnerships. The influx of goods and resources from these explorations solidified Lisbon's status as a key trading center during this transformative period in history.
• Discuss the impact of the Treaty of Tordesillas on Lisbon's role in global trade networks.
  • The Treaty of Tordesillas was pivotal for Lisbon as it formally divided newly discovered territories between Spain and Portugal. This agreement allowed Portugal to secure its interests in Africa and Brazil, enhancing Lisbon's position as a central trading port. With exclusive access to lucrative routes and resources, Lisbon flourished economically and became an essential point for commerce during Europe's age of exploration.
• Evaluate how the earthquake of 1755 affected Lisbon's economy and its standing within global trade networks.
  • The 1755 earthquake was catastrophic for Lisbon, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. However, it also served as a turning point for the city's economy. The subsequent rebuilding efforts led to modernization initiatives that improved infrastructure and urban planning. These developments helped restore Lisbon's prominence in global trade networks by attracting merchants and fostering economic recovery, ultimately enabling it to adapt to changing trade dynamics in the years that followed.

Related terms

Age of Discovery: A period from the late 15th century to the early 17th century characterized by European global exploration, leading to the establishment of new trade routes and contacts with previously unknown lands.

Mercantilism:

An economic theory and practice prevalent in Europe from the 16th to the 18th century that emphasized the importance of accumulating wealth through trade, colonial expansion, and state intervention in the economy.

Caravels: Small, highly maneuverable sailing ships developed by the Portuguese in the 15th century, used during the Age of Discovery for exploration and trade.