Colonial forts were military structures built by European powers during the age of exploration and colonization, primarily in the Americas, Africa, and Asia. These forts served as defensive positions to protect settlers and trade routes from rival nations and indigenous peoples. They often featured thick walls, watchtowers, and barracks for soldiers. Many colonial forts also acted as centers for trade and diplomacy, facilitating interactions between colonizers and local populations. Notable examples include Fort Ticonderoga in North America and Fort Saint Louis in Texas. These forts played a crucial role in the expansion of empires and the establishment of colonial territories.