Circumnavigation
The complete navigation around an entire island or continent
Real World Example
Circumnavigation, especially Magellan's voyage, was crucial because it showed the vastness of the world and the potential for new trade routes, impacting empires like Spain and Portugal. This global exploration highlighted tensions between European empires competing for new lands and resources, a theme that still resonates today with international trade and territorial disputes. The idea of exploring and understanding distant places connects to people's lives now through global travel and communication, which are common. Today, people can buy products from around the world and connect with others across continents, thanks to the curiosity and ambition sparked by early circumnavigations. These historical journeys remind us of the importance of exploration and the benefits and challenges of global interdependence.