USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -The 1494 Treaty of Tordesillas neatly divided the “New World” into land, resources, and people claimed by Spain and Portugal. The red vertical line cutting through eastern Brazil represents the divide.

Detailed explanation-2: -These declarations had granted Spain an exclusive claim to the entirety of North and South America. Alexander wished to accommodate the colonial aspirations of the Catholic Monarchs of his native land. Portugal objected, and the Treaty of Tordesillas shifted the line of demarcation more than 800 miles to the west.

Detailed explanation-3: -After the 16th century, Portugal gradually saw its wealth and influence decrease. Portugal was officially an autonomous state, but in actuality, the country was in a personal union with the Spanish crown from 1580 to 1640.

Detailed explanation-4: -The rivalry between two countries goes back to 1581, when the king Henry of Portugal died with no heir and it triggered a succession crisis. Where the main claimants to the throne were Philip II of Spain and António, Prior of Crato.