Portuguese Exploration and Contributions

The Portuguese Golden Age, also known as the Portuguese Renaissance, was a period of remarkable exploration, innovation, and artistic expression in the 15th and 16th centuries. Portugal's strategic location and maritime tradition facilitated its achievements in navigation and trade, leading to significant discoveries by explorers like Bartholomew Diaz and Vasco de Gama. The era also saw advancements in cartography, art, and science, with contributions from figures like Nuno Goncalves and Garcia de Orta. However, financial strain and competition from other European powers led to its decline. Despite this, the Portuguese Golden Age left a lasting legacy on global exploration and knowledge.

What was a key factor that contributed to the Portuguese Renaissance?

• The invention of the printing press

• The fall of the Roman Empire

• Portugal's tradition of maritime exploration

• The discovery of America

Who was Prince Henry the Navigator married to?

• Anne Boleyn

• Catherine of Aragon

• Princess Philippa of Lancaster

• Queen Isabella of Spain

What was the primary purpose of the navigation schools established in Sagres?

• To study cartography, astronomy, and shipbuilding

• To teach Portuguese language and literature

• To train soldiers for the Portuguese army

• To promote religious education

Which explorer was the first European to sail around the Cape of Good Hope?

• Christopher Columbus

• Bartholomew Diaz

• Vasco de Gama

• Ferdinand Magellan

What was the significance of Vasco de Gama's expedition in 1497?

• He established a colony in Africa

• He circumnavigated the globe

• He reached India, securing access to the spice trade

• He discovered the Americas

What was the Cantino Planisphere?

• A scientific instrument for navigation

• A map showcasing Portuguese discoveries

• A treaty between Portugal and Spain

• A type of ship used by the Portuguese

Which artist is known for bringing a distinct Portuguese artistic style during the Golden Age?

• Leonardo da Vinci

• Michelangelo

• Nuno Goncalves

• Raphael

What was Garcia de Orta's contribution to science?

• He invented the telescope

• He wrote about the medicinal properties of plants

• He discovered the laws of motion

• He developed a new form of art

What was a major reason for the decline of the Portuguese Golden Age?

• The rise of the Ottoman Empire

• The invention of the steam engine

• The discovery of America

• The financial strain of maintaining an overseas empire

How long did the union with Spain last, impacting Portugal's maritime power?

• 30 years

• 60 years

• 100 years

• 150 years