Luanda, now the vibrant capital of Angola, was founded in 1575 by Portuguese navigator Paulo Dias de Novais. This endeavor was part of a broader strategy by Portugal to expand its influence over the coastal regions of Africa, particularly in relation to the lucrative Atlantic slave trade. The region, previously inhabited by several indigenous groups, presented an opportunity for the Portuguese to establish a stronghold from which to control trade routes and resources.

Dias de Novais and his entourage founded the settlement as a fortified city, recognizing the importance of military presence to ensure safety from local resistance and rival European powers. Named 'São Paulo de Luanda', this new outpost quickly gained significance as a center for colonial administration and commerce. The city's strategic location on the coast facilitated maritime trade, connecting inland resources with European markets.

Over time, Luanda evolved from a military stronghold into a bustling port city, attracting various forms of immigration and trade. The foundation laid by Dias de Novais marked the beginning of a Portuguese colonial presence that would last for centuries. Luanda's origins play a critical role in the history of Angola, shaping its culture, economy, and societal structure in the centuries to follow.