This Country Is Britain's Oldest Ally And Here's Why

The 600+ year relationship between England and Portugal gives a whole new meaning to ‘BFF4L’. This connection became a union with ‘Britain’ after the merge of England and Scotland’s parliaments in 1707 and is known as the oldest world alliance that’s still recognized today. Are you wondering how an alliance this old began and managed to stand the test of time?

Which country is Britain’s oldest ally? Portugal!

In Portuguese, it’s known as the Aliança Inglesa, or the English Alliance, while in the UK it goes by the name ‘Anglo-Portuguese Alliance’, but trivia buffs around the world know the relationship between Britain and Portugal as the oldest and perhaps one of the most steadfast ‘friendships’ among nations in observance. The alliance was officially the result of the Treaty of Windsor in 1386, but Portugal and England’s partnership began much earlier, both countries providing aid to the other’s side during times of need.

In the mid-12th century, English crusaders helped Portugal regain Lisbon from the Moors, during an unexpected detour while heading to the ‘Holy Land’ (the historical period known as The Crusades). History states that some crusaders stayed in Portugal after regaining Lisbon, thus beginning regular correspondence between the two countries.

English Crusaders helped Portugal win back Lisbon from the Moors

Through the centuries, both countries aided the other when called, but no partnership is without flaws, and the alliance between Portugal and Britain has experienced bumps along the way. Nonetheless, it still holds strong and was even noted during WWII; despite Portugal’s neutral status in the war, Portugal allowed Britain and Allies use of the Azores, although, ironically, Portugal provided small assistance to the Axis powers as well.

Could this alliance be one reason why Portugal, especially the Algarve, is now home to different British communities? Although Portugal’s fantastic year-round climate, friendly people, and seemingly low cost of living is surely the real reason (attracting expats from other nations too), the connection is quite a coincidence.

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