Vasco Da Gama
A Portuguese explorer and the first European to reach India by sea
Real World Example
Vasco da Gama was a Portuguese explorer who became famous for being the first European to reach India by sea in 1498. This achievement was significant because it opened a new maritime route for trade between Europe and Asia, bypassing the land routes controlled by other powers. His voyage marked an important milestone in the Age of Exploration, leading to increased global trade and the eventual establishment of a Portuguese empire in Asia. Today, da Gama's legacy can be seen in the global trade networks that continue to connect different parts of the world, as well as in the multicultural influences in places like Goa, India. For example, the blend of Portuguese and Indian culture in Goa's cuisine and architecture continues to attract tourists and inspire cultural exchange.