The historical significance of the Treaty of Tordesillas, signed in 1494, was its role in dividing the newly discovered lands outside Europe between Spain and Portugal. This agreement, brokered by the Pope, aimed to resolve conflicts over colonial expansion and prevent war between these two dominant maritime powers. By establishing a meridian line that delineated spheres of influence, it shaped the early geopolitical landscape of the Americas, leading to significant cultural, political, and economic exchanges in the future. The treaty's impact extends through the colonial period, influencing language, culture, and borders in South America.