Describe Prince Henery's focus for exploration. Where did he send explorers and why?

1 Answer
Apr 27, 2017

Prince Henry of Portugal wanted to find a sea route to India and China.

Explanation:

The Old Silk Road to China and India was becoming closed to Portugal. The growth of the Ottoman Turkish empire was restricting Europe's access to trade with China and India. Venice and Genoa of Italy dominated what was left of the Silk Road Trade.

This provided motivation to explore a sea route around the Cape of Good Hope to India. The Exploration of Africa lead to profitable trade for Portugal even before the route was completed around to India.

In the 1450's The Ottoman Turks had conquered the Eastern Roman Empire the trading outposts of Genoa completely closing trade along the silk road. The fall of Constantiople gave more urgency to Portugal's exploration.

The desire for a sea route for trade to India and China was the motivation for Prince Henry's exploration.