Regional Development in Portugal

Abstract

The kingdom of Portugal had its origin during the 12th century in the north, the central and southern parts being conquered from the Moors (towards the end of the 14th century). This period is known as the ‘agrarian cycle’: the people lived essentially off the land, the population being small, and production adequate. Trade with Africa and Enrope started to assume importance at the beginning of the 15th century when the ‘cycle of trade’ started. This coincided with the discovery of the maritime route to India and the discovery of the New World.