-
206 BCE
The Magnetic Compass is Invented
This invention allowed sailors to know exactly which direction they were sailing. It also allowed the sailors to get to certain places. -
200 BCE
The Astrolabe is Invented
The astrolabe helped sailors to navigate better using the sun and the stars. -
Jun 20, 1415
Interest Sparks in Portugal
After taking control of Ceuta in Northern Africa Portugal's Prince Henry is inspired to explore more and to round the tip of Africa -
May 7, 1440
The Caravel is Invented
The caravel is a newly designed ship that boosts exploration. It allows for sailors to sail against the wind. -
Jul 11, 1440
The Printing Press is Invented
The printing press allowed more maps to be made. More maps being made allowed for more sailors to get them which allows for more exploration. -
Jan 20, 1460
Portugal has Ports in Africa
Portugal establishes ports along the west coast of Africa. They use these ports to increase trade. -
Mar 7, 1488
Bartolomeu Dias Sails Around the Southern Tip of Africa
He was the first person to sail around the southern tip of Africa. He was the first explorer from Portugal to find a sea route to India. -
May 20, 1498
Vasco da Gama reaches India
Vasco da Gama rounds the southern tip of Africa to reach India for Portugal. -
Nov 29, 1509
Portugal Defeats Muslims
Portugal defeats to control trade in the Indian Ocean. -
English Merchants Establish East India Company
The English travel to India and set up a trading post called The East India Company. With this the English end the Portuguese monopoly on trade with India.