Here's why:
* Vast Size: The Portuguese Empire spanned continents and included numerous regions, many of which are now independent nations.
* Changing Borders: Over time, the empire's boundaries shifted due to conquest, treaties, and independence movements.
Instead of just 5 countries, here are some examples of territories that were part of the Portuguese Empire:
* In Europe: Portugal (obviously!), Azores, Madeira
* In Africa: Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, São Tomé and Príncipe, parts of modern-day South Africa, Ghana, and others.
* In Asia: Macau, Goa, Daman and Diu (India), Timor-Leste, parts of modern-day Malaysia and Indonesia.
* In the Americas: Brazil, parts of modern-day Venezuela and Guyana.
It's best to think of the Portuguese Empire as a vast network of colonies, trading posts, and settlements spread across the globe. Many of these areas became independent nations, retaining cultural and historical ties to Portugal.