Portugal is unique in many ways; it is one of the first global empires and the first empire to have maritime relations with other parts of the world. Portugal also had the longest dictatorship in Europe. Like many other European countries, Portugal was under the control of the Greeks, Romans and the Moors subsequently.
During the 15th century, the Portuguese started marine explorations towards the Far East and South America. They enjoyed monopoly over the spice trade back then. Remember Vasco da Gama, the first explorer who came to India by sea? He was Portuguese.
Portugal became independent from Spanish rule in 1668 under the Treaty of Lisbon. During the First World War, the Portuguese sided with the Allies. Unrest prevailed in the country which led to a military regime headed by Antonio Salazar. This autocratic regime is known as Estado Novo regime. A peaceful movement called Carnation Revolution later established democracy. Much later, Portugal joined the European Union in 1986.
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