Vasco da Gama succeeded in gaining a direct maritime route to India for Portugal.
In the late 15th century, European powers were eager to establish trade routes to the rich markets of Asia. Before Da Gama’s voyage, the land routes were lengthy and dangerous, often controlled by rival empires. In 1497, Vasco da Gama embarked on a historic journey, becoming the first European to reach India by sea. He sailed around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope and arrived in Calicut, where he established trade relations.
This achievement opened up a direct oceanic trading route for Portugal, allowing them to import spices and other valuable goods directly from India. It marked the beginning of Portugal’s dominance in the spice trade and expanded their influence in the Indian Ocean, leading to a significant maritime empire. Da Gama’s voyage not only positioned Portugal as a major trading power, but it also ushered in an era of exploration and colonization that reshaped global trade.