Discuss the significance for Portugal of its exploration of the west coast of Africa.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the significance for Portugal of its exploration of the west coast of Africa. The significance may extend beyond the timeframe. Candidates may refer to the fact that the exploration provided the Portuguese with a great economic advantage and trade networks were established. Candidates may also refer to the fact that domestically it had very little popular support and caused tensions as the enterprise and benefits of exploration were only enjoyed by the nobility. Candidates may discuss the fact that the slave trade impacted Portugal domestically with slaves becoming significant minorities in various cities. While other relevant factors, for example, how it transformed West African states or its relation to the larger Asian spice route, may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question.