Knowra Kingdom of Portugal Kingdom of Portugal The Kingdom of Portugal was a sovereign monarchy from the twelfth century until the 1910 revolution established the Portuguese Republic. Its history includes the formation of Portugal, overseas expansion, and the transition from empire to constitutional crisis.
County of Portugal : A medieval county in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula that became the core of the Kingdom of Portugal. Its counts and territory formed the political foundation of the kingdom.
Portuguese Cortes : The historical assemblies of Portugal’s estates, including clergy, nobility, and representatives of towns. The Cortes could advise the crown and, at key moments, recognize successors.
Portuguese discoveries : The maritime exploration and expansion sponsored by Portugal from the fifteenth century onward. Royal sponsorship made exploration a major instrument of Portuguese power.
Crown of Castile : A composite monarchy that became a major power in the Iberian Peninsula and the Americas. Its rivalry and union with other Spanish crowns shaped Portugal’s strategic setting.
John I of Portugal : The first king of Portugal from the House of Aviz, reigning from 1385 to 1433. His accession secured the dynasty after the succession crisis and war.
Afonso I of Portugal : The first king of Portugal, who ruled from 1139 until 1185. His victories and claims established an independent Portuguese monarchy.
Portuguese succession crisis of 1383–1385 : A struggle over the Portuguese throne that ended with the accession of John I and the founding of the House of Aviz. It shows how a disputed succession could reshape the dynasty and state.
Portuguese Empire : An overseas empire established by Portugal from the fifteenth century, with territories across Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The monarchy built its wealth and influence through overseas rule and trade.
Crown of Aragon : A composite monarchy of northeastern Iberian territories and Mediterranean possessions that existed until its dynastic union with Castile. Its different political structure offers a comparison with Portugal’s centralized crown.
Henry the Navigator : A Portuguese prince who sponsored voyages and maritime ventures during the early fifteenth century. His patronage helped tie royal authority to Atlantic exploration.
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