Brazilian history began with the arrival of the Portuguese in 1500, led by Pedro Álvares Cabral. The country was initially a colony, focused on sugar production and later gold mining. In 1822, Dom Pedro I declared Brazil's independence from Portugal, establishing the Empire of Brazil. Throughout the 19th century, Brazil experienced significant changes, including the abolition of slavery in 1888. The monarchy was replaced by a republic in 1889. The 20th century saw industrialization and urbanization, leading to Brazil's emergence as a major player in global politics and economics.