Portugal

1. Traditionally dated 1139: Founded as an independent kingdom under Afonso Henriques; recognized by papal decree in 1179.
2. 15th–16th Century: Age of Discovery makes Portugal a global maritime empire with territories spanning South America, Africa, and Asia.
3. 1755: Great Lisbon Earthquake forces comprehensive structural, economic, and political restructuring.
4. 1933–1974: Decades of authoritarian rule under the *Estado Novo* regime, marked by colonial wars in Africa.
5. 1974: Bloodless Carnation Revolution overthrows dictatorship, granting independence to overseas colonies and restoring democracy.
6. 1986: Joins the European Economic Community, developing a modernized, tourist- and export-friendly economy.

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