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206 BCE
Invention of the Magnetic Compass
Was used for navigating. It used a magnetic needle attracted to the two poles. -
200 BCE
Invention of the Astrolabe
The astrolabe helps sailors map the sun and stars so they could guide were they were going. -
Jan 1, 1400
Invention of the Caravel
The Caravel was a faster more efficient ship. This helped exploration because it was fast and held extra cargo than previous ships. -
Period: Jan 1, 1400 to
Christianity was spreading
Christians wanted to spread the word of God, so they began to travel. -
Jan 1, 1419
Navigational School
Prince Henry founds a navigational school. The school helped with map making, sailing, and boat making. -
Jan 1, 1440
Cartography
The invention of the printing press allowed maps to be distributed quickly, and more people could explore. -
Jan 1, 1492
Colombus
Christopher Columbus convinced Spain to let him sail. HE tried to get to Asia for cargo in high demand. -
Jan 1, 1494
Treaty of Tordesillas
The land Spain and Portugal fought over was separated by the pope. This was the line of demarcation. Both country's agreed to this, and the Treaty of Tordesillas. -
Jan 1, 1497
Dias Sails around Africa
Dias finds a way to sail around the southern tip of Africa on his way to India -
Jan 1, 1498
Vasco de Gama
Vasco de Gama sails to India. He returns home with precious cargo, and a tense relationship.
