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Portuguese development of maritime technology

Definition

This refers to the advancements in shipbuilding, navigation, and map-making by the Portuguese during the Age of Discovery (15th-17th centuries), which allowed them to explore and establish trade routes across the world's oceans.

Analogy

Think of it like upgrading from a bicycle to a sports car. The Portuguese went from simple boats that could only navigate familiar coastal waters to advanced ships capable of crossing vast oceans. It's like going from riding your bike around your neighborhood to driving a high-speed car on an interstate highway system.

Related terms

Caravel: A small, highly maneuverable sailing ship developed by the Portuguese in the 15th century that used triangular sails to sail against the wind.

Astrolabe: An ancient navigational instrument used by sailors to determine latitude by measuring the angle between a celestial body and the horizon.

Henry the Navigator: A 15th-century Portuguese prince who sponsored many exploratory voyages along Africa's west coast, laying groundwork for widespread European exploration and eventual domination of global trade routes.