Everything Everywhere Daily · Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Portugal's ambition to become a powerful seafaring nation was fueled by its geographic position and rivalry with Spain. Initially focused on securing possessions like Madeira and the Azores, Portuguese mariners, particularly under Prince Henry the Navigator, set their sights on expanding beyond Africa.
“Portuguese maritime ambitions were driven entirely by their geographic limitations. They were a small territory on the western edge of the Iberian Peninsula, hemmed in by a larger neighbor to the east. To thrive in a Europe of expanding nation states, Portugal would have to become a powerful seafaring nation, pushing past the unknown boundaries of Africa.”
“The Canary Islands were the first test of this principle. Spain and Portugal fought a long war over control of the Canaries. Both kingdoms viewed the Canaries not only as a land rich in treasure, but also as a vital strategic location. Sitting just off the northwest coast of Africa, these islands were an absolute necessity for any nation hoping to expand into Africa.”