Age of Exploration: European Exploration

Front

What sparked the interest of the Portuguese in Africa during the Age of Exploration?

Back

The conquest of the trade city of Ceuta in 1415 by Prince Henry, which provided a strategic port for trade.

Front

What was the primary goal of Portuguese exploration along the western coast of Africa?

Back

The search for gold.

Front

Which trading post did the Portuguese establish in present-day Ghana?

Back

Elmina.

Front

Who was Bartolomeu Dias and what did he accomplish?

Back

Bartolomeu Dias was an explorer who navigated around the Cape of Good Hope in May 1488, proving a sea route from Europe to the East.

Front

What was Vasco da Gama's significant achievement?

Back

He established a sea route to India, reaching Calicut on May 20, 1498.

Front

What did Alfonso de Albuquerque achieve in 1510?

Back

He established a trading port at Goa, India, and conquered Melaka, gaining control of the spice trade.

Front

What misconception did educated Europeans have about the Earth during the Age of Exploration?

Back

They understood the Earth was round but relied on inaccurate calculations about its size.

Front

Who financed Christopher Columbus's expedition to find a route to Asia?

Back

Spanish rulers Ferdinand and Isabella.

Front

What did Columbus mistakenly believe he had discovered in 1492?

Back

He thought he had reached Asia but actually encountered the Americas.

Front

What was Ferdinand Magellan known for?

Back

He was the first person to circumnavigate the globe, although he died before completing the journey.