Extension of the Spanish and Portuguese empires (1790)

This map, created by a Wikimedia Commons user Nagihuin in 2018, shows the extent of the Portuguese Empire, in green, and the Spanish Empire, in blue, around the year 1790.

There is a notable difference between the two types of territorial expansion. The Spanish Empire's greatest influence was centred in the Americas, partly thanks to the favourable Treaty of Tordesillas. For its part, the Portuguese Empire had greater influence in Africa and Asia, which resulted in an important trade network.

It is crucial to note that the borders drawn refer to the territory claimed by each of the empires, rather than actual control over it.

Sources

• Spanish and Portuguese Empires 1790