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Vasco da Gama
Historical Figures
Vasco da Gama
The Portuguese explorer who discovered the sea route to India.
Born
1469
Died
1524
Nationality
Portuguese
Profession
Explorer
Life Journey & Timeline
Explore 11 key moments that shaped Vasco da Gama's extraordinary life and lasting legacy.
1469
1469-09-25
Birth
Vasco da Gama is born
•Age 0•Sines, Portugal
Vasco da Gama was born to Estêvão da Gama and Isabel Sodré, into a noble family in Sines, Portugal. His early life was spent in the Portuguese court, where he was exposed to maritime and military affairs.
1480
Education
Begins maritime training
•Age 11•Portugal
Vasco da Gama starts his maritime training, learning navigation, seamanship, and the use of nautical instruments. His education is crucial in preparing him for future voyages and explorations.
1492
Career
Joins the royal navy
•Age 23•Portugal
Vasco da Gama joins the Portuguese royal navy, where he serves under King John II. His skills in navigation and seamanship are recognized, and he begins to gain experience in naval operations and command.
1497
Achievement
Leads first expedition to India
•Age 28•Lisbon, Portugal
Vasco da Gama is appointed to lead a fleet of four ships on a voyage to find a sea route to India. This expedition marks the beginning of Portuguese exploration in the Indian Ocean.
1498
Milestone
Reaches the coast of India
•Age 29•Calicut, India
After a perilous journey, Vasco da Gama and his fleet reach the coast of Calicut (now Kozhikode) in India on May 20, 1498. This achievement opens up a direct sea route from Europe to Asia.
1502
Career
Second voyage to India
•Age 33•Lisbon, Portugal
Vasco da Gama leads a second expedition to India, this time with a larger fleet of 20 ships. The voyage aims to strengthen Portuguese influence and establish trade relations in the region.
1503
Achievement
Establishes trade agreements
•Age 34•India
Vasco da Gama negotiates trade agreements with local rulers in India, solidifying Portuguese control over key ports and trade routes. This marks the beginning of the Portuguese Empire in Asia.
1504
Personal
Returns to Portugal
•Age 35•Lisbon, Portugal
Vasco da Gama returns to Portugal after his second voyage, bringing back valuable spices and other goods. His success enhances his reputation and solidifies his place in history.
1519
Milestone
Granted title of Count of Vidigueira
•Age 50•Portugal
Vasco da Gama is granted the title of Count of Vidigueira by King Manuel I of Portugal, in recognition of his contributions to the Portuguese Empire and maritime exploration.
1524
Career
Appointed Viceroy of India
•Age 55•Lisbon, Portugal
Vasco da Gama is appointed Viceroy of India by King John III of Portugal. He departs for India to oversee the administration and expansion of Portuguese territories in the region.
1524
1524-12-24
Death
Dies in Cochin, India
•Age 55•Cochin, India
Vasco da Gama dies in Cochin (now Kochi), India, on December 24, 1524, after a brief illness. His body is later returned to Portugal and interred in the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon.
Major Achievements
Discover the groundbreaking contributions that made Vasco da Gama a legendary figure.
1
First European to reach India by sea
2
Opening of the sea route from Europe to Asia
3
Portuguese expansion in the Indian Ocean
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Cultural & Historical Context
Portuguese
Personality Traits
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AmbitiousBrave Adventurous