Important dates in Portugal

1139

Battle of Ourique; Afonso Henrique declares himself King of Portugal

1143

Treaty of Zamorra; Portugal recognized as a kingdom by Leon

1179

Papal Bull Manifestis Probatum formally recognizes Portugal’s independence

1249

Reconquista in Portugal is completed with the capture of the Algarve

1908

The Família Real was assassinated

1386

Treaty of Windsor; establishes long-lasting alliance with England

1415

Portugal captures Ceuta, marking the start of its overseas empire

1494

Treaty of Tordesillas divides land between Portugal and Spain

1498

Vasco da Gama reaches India

1580-1640

Iberian Union; Portugal is under Spanish rule

1640

Restoration of Portuguese independence

1755

Lisbon earthquake devastates the city

1822

Brazil declares independence from Portugal

1910

Portuguese monarchy is overthrown, First Republic is established

1926

Military dictatorship; Salazar

1974

Carnation Revolution restores democracy

1986

Portugal joins the European Economic Community (EU)