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1400
Prince Henry Sponsors Exploration
Henry sponsored explorers' voyages throughout the Western coast of Africa. This marked the beginning of Portugese exploration of the Atlantic Ocean and beyond. -
1456
Portuguese Explorers Reach Cape Verde Islands
Portuguese explorers discovered the uninhabited Cape Verde Islands, where they would eventually establish a permanent settlement that was vital for ships navigating up and down the African Coast. -
1492
Christopher Columbus' First Voyage to America
Explorer Christopher Columbus, sponsored by the Spanish monarchy, sailed across the Atlantic Ocean with hopes of discovering a trade route to Asia, but landed in North America instead. This marked the first documented Europeans setting foot in the New World -
1494
Treaty of Tordesillas
A treaty between the two most successful explorer countries, Spain and Portugal, that divided the world outside of Europe between themselves. This treaty shaped the colonization of both countries throughout the world. -
1498
Vasco da Gama reaches India
Explorer Vasco da Gama lands in India after sailing from Portugal and around Africa. This marks the first time that Europe and Asia were linked by sea, and is also considered the beginning of European colonization in Europe. -
1522
Ferdinand Magellan Circumnavigates the Globe
After a three-year voyage, Ferdinand Magellan's ship arrived back in Portugal. This marks the first time that a ship sailed around the entire world. -
British East India Company Established
One of the most powerful corporations of the time and history was established. This corporation would be vital in shaping the world economy and maritime trade, and would eventually play a pivotal role in the American Revolution. -
Dutch East India Company Established
In order to compete with the British, the Dutch established their own East India Company. The competition between these two countries would shape the global economy and trade for many years. -
First African Slaves Arrive in Virginia
This marks the beginning of the transatlantic slave trade, which was an important piece of the Columbian exchange, and shaped the economies of the Americas, specifically what would become the Southern United States and the Caribbean. -
Period: to
Seven Years War
Fought primarily between the two most powerful countries of the time, France and Great Britain, this war spanned across multiple continents. By securing victory in this war, Britain solidified itself as the most powerful empire in the world.