Portuguese Discoveries

The Portuguese Discoveries, occurring primarily in the 15th and 16th centuries, refer to Portugal's exploration and navigation led by figures like Prince Henry the Navigator. They aimed to find new trade routes to Asia and access valuable spices and gold. Notable achievements include the first European arrival in India by Vasco da Gama in 1498 and the discovery of Brazil in 1500. These explorations expanded European geographical knowledge, established trade empires, and had lasting cultural and economic impacts worldwide. Portugal's advancements in navigation technology also set the stage for future explorations by other European powers.