Vasco da Gama

During the fifteenth century, there were several explorers that changed the world’s course. Vasco da Gama, a famous Portuguese explorer, was one of them. Like his contemporary, Christopher Columbus, da Gama wanted to find a route from Europe to Asia. Europe needed access to Asia’s valuable goods. Columbus thought the quickest way to Asia would be to sail west. Da Gama decided he would try his luck and sail east. Eventually, he would become the first European to reach India by ship.

Da Gama’s journey of discovery began in July 1497. He set sail from Lisbon, Portugal’s capital. He sailed four ships with a crew of about 170 men. First, he headed south to Africa’s southern tip. No one at that time knew what was around the corner of Africa. Despite the potential dangers, da Gama rounded the tip in 4 months.

Next, da Gama’s fleet sailed north along Africa’s eastern coast. But not everyone welcomed the sudden visit by European strangers. Some of the Arab traders became upset with the Portuguese and made them leave. Some Africans helped Da Gama with a guide to lead the fleet to India.

Finally, da Gama and his crew headed east. But, again, things became difficult. India’s Hindu ruler felt insulted by da Gama’s gifts, which he thought were worthless. Also, some Arab traders controlled trading in India and didn’t want the Europeans in their business. They threatened the Portuguese and refused to trade with them. Still, da Gama’s voyage was a success. Portugal had reached India by sea. Da Gama returned home a hero, but at a huge price. Many of the sailors died of disease during the voyage home. Only half of the crew survived by the time the fleet returned to Portugal.