The Age Of Discovery - The Search For A Sea Route To India

In the mid-1400s, the extent of the African continent was unknown. Portugal tasked Bartholomeu Dias in 1487 to explore if Africa had a southernmost tip leading to Eastern waters. Initially focused on West African trade, the Portuguese realized they could access the lucrative spice trade by navigating around Africa into the Indian Ocean. Despite storms, Dias confirmed a sea route to India existed, returning triumphantly in 1488. King John II named the discovered tip the Cape of Good Hope.

Who was the man chosen by Portugal to explore the southernmost tip of Africa?

What was the primary interest of the Portuguese in West Africa before exploring further?

What significant discovery did Bartholomeu Dias make in 1487?

Describe the challenges Bartholomeu Dias faced during his voyage.

What name did King John II of Portugal give to the tip of Africa discovered by Dias?