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Portuguese maritime exploration during the Age of Discovery was pivotal in shaping global trade and geopolitics. Led by figures like Prince Henry the Navigator and King John II, Portugal sought new territories, gold, and the propagation of Christianity. The explorations led to the discovery of new sea routes, notably Vasco da Gama's voyage to India, and had a lasting impact on Africa's trade, religion, and social structures.
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Portuguese explorers sought to acquire precious commodities like gold and establish trade routes to Asia
The Portuguese aimed to spread Christianity and establish alliances with Christian rulers in Africa
Portugal sought to disrupt North African slave raids and counter the Ottoman threat through alliances with African kingdoms
As a prince and grand master of the Order of Christ, Henry played a pivotal role in driving Portuguese exploration through his goals of seeking Prester John, disrupting slave raids, and accessing African gold
John II reinvigorated Portuguese exploration after Henry's death, emphasizing the pursuit of gold, the enslavement and trade of African peoples, and the search for Prester John
Explorers such as Bartolomeu Dias, Pêro da Covilhã, and Diogo Cão made significant contributions to Portuguese exploration, including rounding the Cape of Good Hope, identifying an overland route to India, and establishing relations with the Kingdom of Kongo
Portuguese exploration redirected the gold trade to maritime routes and introduced new crops, altering agricultural practices in Africa
The Portuguese exploitation of African resources, including the enslavement of individuals, became a significant part of the transatlantic trade
The Portuguese spread of Christianity had lasting religious implications for Africa, with the conversion efforts often accompanying or facilitating economic exploitation
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Geographic advantage of Portugal in the Age of Discovery
Portugal's location at Europe's southwestern edge was ideal for launching maritime expeditions.
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Role of Prince Henry the Navigator in Portuguese explorations
Prince Henry sponsored voyages, established a navigation school, and advanced maritime technology.
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Mythical figure sought by Portuguese explorers
Explorers were partly motivated by the legend of Prester John, a fabled Christian monarch.
