What was the purpose of the Treaty of Tordesillas?

The Treaty of Tordesillas, signed in 1494, primarily aimed to address the territorial claims of Spain and Portugal in the newly discovered lands of the Americas. This treaty established a line of demarcation that divided the world between these two powerful maritime nations, allowing Spain to claim territories to the west of the line and Portugal to claim lands to the east. The division was intended to prevent conflict over newly explored regions and secure both nations' interests in their respective territories.

The importance of this treaty lies in its role in shaping European colonial ambitions in the New World and influencing the subsequent patterns of exploration and settlement. It reflected the rivalries of the period and the desire of both Spain and Portugal to expand their influence and control over new lands without infringing upon each other's claims. The agreement is a significant moment in history as it laid the groundwork for future colonization efforts and established a framework for European powers' dealings with indigenous peoples and uncharted territories.