Bartolomeu Dias Research Paper

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Bartolomeu Dias

Bartolomeu Dias, a famous sailor, explorer, and ship builder, had done many important things that affected the modern world during the Age of Exploration. All that is known about Dias’s birth, is that he was born in 1450 in Portugal. Though nothing is known about his early life, but he has done many important things in his late life. Firstly, he sailed the southern tip of Africa. He was the first European to ever do that. In doing so, he also marked the southernmost point of portuguese exploration. Also, he explored around the coast of Africa. Discovering new capes, like the Cape of Good Hope. Finally, Bartolomeu Dias, was also an expert ship builder. He spent nine years practicing and his building ethics inspired many more …show more content…

This was very crucial discovery because it gave the Europeans a new sea route from Europe to Asia. Bartolomeu, was sponsored by the King of Portugal, King John ll to go and discover a sea route to India. In August 1487, Dias departed in search of a new sea route to India. Three ships departed with him, from Lisbon: The São Cristóvão, the São Pantaleão, and a supply ship. Dias sailed for approximately 16 months and 17 days. On December 8, Dias had passed Cao’s markere which was the southernmost point of Portuguese exploration. This was a big accomplishment, but as Dias was sailing to find a sea route to India in January, he encountered very dangerous storms. These storms blew him away from the coast of South Africa. Using his prior knowledge in sailing, Dias ordered a turn of 28 degrees. It was a very risky decision, but it lead him to land in February. For another month, Dias sailed further along the coastline, but his crew came to vote to turn back. He marked the place where he turned back as that became the new southernmost point. Once he arrived back in Lisbon, he had to explain his failure in finding a new water route. Due to this failure, he lost the position of authority. His expedition, paved the way for Vasco da Gama, who he later accompanies to find a sea route to India, This time he

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