Which country was the first to establish a global maritime empire in the 15th century?

• A. Spain
• B. England
• C. Portugal
• D. France

Answer: (C)

The establishment of the first global maritime empire in the 15th century is attributed to Portugal due to its pioneering naval strategies and exploratory ventures. In the early part of the 15th century, Portuguese explorers, like Prince Henry the Navigator, significantly advanced maritime technology and navigation techniques. They focused on exploration along the western coast of Africa and eventually reached the shores of India and Brazil, setting up trade routes that spanned across continents.

Portugal's strategic use of fortified trading posts and a network of alliances allowed it to control significant portions of the spice trade in Asia and maintain a foothold in Africa. This marks the beginning of a new era in maritime history, wherein Portugal's endeavors laid the groundwork for the global exchange of goods, cultures, and ideas, thus establishing the first truly global maritime empire. The achievements of Portuguese explorers in this period set a precedent that would later be followed and expanded upon by other European powers, but it was Portugal that first established this extensive network of maritime dominance.