What did Portugal want in the Berlin Conference? This question delves into the historical context of the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885, where European powers gathered to divide Africa into colonies. Portugal, as one of the participating nations, had specific objectives and aspirations that shaped its role in the conference.
The Berlin Conference was a pivotal moment in the late 19th century, marking the formalization of European colonialism in Africa. Portugal, already a colonial power with territories in Asia and South America, sought to expand its influence on the African continent. Portugal’s primary goals at the conference were centered around securing and protecting its existing interests, as well as gaining new territories.
One of Portugal’s main objectives was to confirm and expand its claim over its African territories, particularly in Mozambique and Angola. Portugal had been gradually expanding its presence in these regions since the 16th century, and the Berlin Conference provided an opportunity to solidify its claims. By doing so, Portugal aimed to ensure that its colonies would be recognized and protected by the European powers.
Another key goal for Portugal was to secure favorable trade agreements with the other European nations. As a maritime power, Portugal had a significant interest in maintaining its commercial advantage in the Indian Ocean and Atlantic regions. By negotiating trade terms with other colonial powers, Portugal sought to ensure that its economic interests would not be undermined by the growing competition from other European countries.
Portugal also desired to prevent the partition of its colonies. At the conference, the European powers were divided into two groups, with one group responsible for dividing the interior of Africa and the other for the coastlines. Portugal feared that its territories would be split, potentially leading to the loss of control over valuable resources and strategic positions. Therefore, Portugal worked diligently to negotiate boundaries that would preserve its colonial integrity.
In addition to these primary goals, Portugal sought to establish a more equitable and just division of Africa. Recognizing the potential for conflict and instability, Portugal advocated for a system that would balance the interests of all European powers, including itself. This approach was aimed at avoiding the kind of chaos that could arise from an uneven distribution of territories.
In conclusion, what Portugal wanted in the Berlin Conference was to secure and expand its African colonies, protect its trade interests, prevent the partition of its territories, and promote a fair and balanced division of Africa. These objectives were crucial to Portugal’s colonial aspirations and its desire to maintain its status as a major European power in the late 19th century.
