The Age Of Discovery - The Search For A Sea Route To India

In the mid-1400s, the extent of the African continent was unknown. Portugal tasked Bartholomeu Dias in 1487 to explore if Africa had a southernmost tip leading to Eastern waters. Initially focused on West African trade, the Portuguese realized they could access the lucrative spice trade by navigating around Africa into the Indian Ocean. Despite storms, Dias confirmed a sea route to India existed, returning triumphantly in 1488. King John II named the discovered tip the Cape of Good Hope.

What was the main goal of Bartholomeu Dias' expedition in 1487?

• To establish a colony in Africa

• To map the entire African coastline

• To find a new continent

• To discover a southernmost point of Africa

What was the initial interest of the Portuguese in Africa?

• To explore the entire continent

• To find a route to the Americas

• To trade with West Africa

• To establish a military base

Which ancient geographer's ideas influenced the Portuguese exploration strategy?

• Ptolemy

• Herodotus

• Strabo

• Eratosthenes

What significant challenge did Dias face during his voyage?

• Lack of supplies

• Hostile encounters with local tribes

• Mutiny among his crew

• Fierce storms near South Africa

What name was given to the southern tip of Africa discovered by Dias?

• Cape of Storms

• Cape of Africa

• Cape of Good Hope

• Cape of Discovery