The Azores were discovered by Portuguese navigators in the 15th century, at the height of Portuguese Maritime Expansion. Although the exact date of discovery is not known for sure, it is believed to have been around 1427, by Diogo de Silves, during the reign of D. João I.
In 1431, Gonçalo Velho Cabral, the Portuguese explorer responsible for the settlement of the islands of São Miguel and Santa Maria, reportedly introduced cattle to them. Opening the way for the settlers, who came later, in 1439. During the 15th century the remaining islands were being populated, mainly by inhabitants from the north and south of Portugal, Jews and Moors, Flemish, English and French, as well as African slaves.
The discovery of the Azores had a great influence on Portugal’s maritime and geographic history, as it allowed for the expansion of navigation and the creation of safer and more efficient sea routes between Portugal and the Americas, thus opening a route for the transportation of products, including sugar and spices, between East and West.
History
During the Philippine monarchy between 1580 and 1640, the Azores played a very important role in the defense of the kingdom and resistance against Spanish rule, as well as later during the Portuguese Civil War of 1832, providing support to the Liberal forces.
A little later, during World War I and World War II, the archipelago provided vital aid to its allies through its ports and airports, and was an important communications support center.
Over the centuries, the Azores have had an important influence on the Portuguese culture and economy, and were once a popular luxury tourist destination among the upper classes of Portuguese society.
After the 25th of April revolution in 1974, the Azores gained full political and administrative autonomy, being granted the status of Autonomous Region and having its own legislative assembly and government.
