The correct answer is option 3: Portuguese. The Portuguese were the first to arrive in Africa as traders, which eventually led to European colonization of Africa.

During the 15th century, Portuguese explorers such as Prince Henry the Navigator began exploring the coast of Africa. They were searching for new trade routes to Asia and were particularly interested in finding a sea route to India and its valuable spices.

The Portuguese established trading posts and forts along the African coast, especially in areas such as present-day Angola and Mozambique. These trading posts served as bases for commerce, allowing the Portuguese to establish control over African trade networks and exploit the continent`s resources.

This initial Portuguese presence in Africa set the stage for further European colonization and exploitation of the continent. Other European powers, such as the Dutch, British, French, and Spanish, would follow in the footsteps of the Portuguese and establish their own colonial empires in Africa in the centuries to come.