Infante Dom Henrique (Henry the Navigator)

Infante Dom Henrique, commonly known as Henry the Navigator, was a Portuguese prince born in 1394. He played a crucial role in the early days of the Age of Discovery, promoting exploration along the West African coast. Henry established a naval school that advanced navigation and maritime techniques, significantly contributing to Portugal's maritime empire. Although he never sailed on expeditions himself, his support helped map uncharted territories and opened trade routes. His legacy is marked by enhancing knowledge of navigation, fostering exploration, and stimulating interest in discovering new lands, which influenced global trade and exchange in the centuries that followed.