Which statement identifies a way that an important component of the Portuguese Empire changed over time? (1 point)

The Portuguese gained territory in Asia by the nineteenth century.

The Portuguese were no longer the strongest military power by the nineteenth century.

The Portuguese government attempted to put less of a focus on the social caste system.

The slave trade eventually stopped, as it was no longer profitable for Portugal.

The statement "The slave trade eventually stopped, as it was no longer profitable for Portugal" identifies a way that an important component of the Portuguese Empire changed over time.

A, b, c, or d

D

To identify a way that an important component of the Portuguese Empire changed over time, we need to examine each statement and determine which one reflects a change.

1. "The Portuguese gained territory in Asia by the nineteenth century." This statement describes an expansion of Portuguese territory, which does not necessarily imply a change in an important component of the Empire.

2. "The Portuguese were no longer the strongest military power by the nineteenth century." This statement indicates a change in the Portuguese military position, suggesting a transformation in their military power.

3. "The Portuguese government attempted to put less of a focus on the social caste system." This statement implies a change in the Portuguese government's approach to the social caste system, highlighting a shift in their priorities.

4. "The slave trade eventually stopped, as it was no longer profitable for Portugal." This statement signifies a change in the Portuguese Empire, specifically in regards to their involvement in the slave trade.

Out of the four statements, the only one that identifies a way an important component of the Portuguese Empire changed over time is: "The Portuguese were no longer the strongest military power by the nineteenth century."