Colonial Brazil refers to the period from 1500 to 1822 when Brazil was a colony of Portugal. The Portuguese arrived in 1500, establishing settlements and exploiting the land for resources like sugar and gold. The economy relied heavily on enslaved labor, primarily from Africa, leading to a diverse cultural mix. During this time, Brazil developed a unique society influenced by Indigenous peoples, African traditions, and Portuguese customs. Major cities like Salvador and Rio de Janeiro emerged as important cultural and economic centers. The colonial period ended when Brazil declared independence in 1822, marking the beginning of its journey as a sovereign nation.