1. Early Expeditions:
Prince Henry encouraged and sponsored Portuguese expeditions aimed at exploring the western coast of Africa. In 1419, he sent two ships that charted the island of Porto Santo and then Madeira. These voyages marked the beginning of Portugal's expansion beyond its original borders.
2. Sagres Observatory and School of Navigation:
Henry established a center of navigation and nautical research in Sagres, Portugal. At the School of Navigation, he assembled experts in cartography, astronomy, and mathematics to study and improve navigation techniques, creating a knowledge hub that would greatly benefit Portuguese explorers.
3. Exploration of the African Coast:
Prince Henry's main goal was to find a sea route to the East Indies (Asia) around Africa, bypassing the Muslim-held Mediterranean Sea and land routes. He systematically organized expeditions to explore the western African coastline, one section at a time. By the mid-15th century, Portuguese explorers had reached the sub-Saharan region.
4. Notable Discoveries:
Some of the key discoveries during Prince Henry's era included:
- Cape Bojador (1434), previously thought to be the end of the world
- Guinea Coast (1434-1460)
- Sierra Leone (1461)
- Cape Verde Islands (1460-62)
- Gold Coast (1471)
- Sao Tome and Principe (1472)
5. Impact and Legacy:
Henry's systematic exploration of the African coastline laid the foundation for future Portuguese navigation and trade. His initiatives not only pushed the boundaries of geographical knowledge but also led to the establishment of commercial outposts, the spice trade, and eventually, the discovery of the sea route to India by Vasco da Gama in 1498.
Prince Henry's visionary approach to exploration and patronage of scientific research solidified Portugal's position as a leading maritime power in the 15th and 16th centuries, greatly contributing to the Age of Discovery.