Early Colonial Empires in the Americas

Yet, each country
possesed the idea that their culture was superior to the Indians and Africans, and desired to
colonize areas that were rich in natural resources.
<Tab/>The Portuguese voyages demonstrated the practicability of sailing long distances. Once
this inconcievable feat was accomplished the Portuguese were able to set up trading posts in
Africa. Trade primarily revolved around gold and slaves. These trading posts were eventually
opened up to the English and Spanish, which served to be a great factor in colonizing their
empires. Also, plantations were created on some islands in Africa where slaves did the labor
and the Portuguese were able to make large amounts of profit. Portugal's colonization of the
Americas were set up mainly in present day Brazil. …