Portugal Exploration Essay

Introduction The Portuguese Exploration highlighted the countrys ascendancy to economic growth and power. Explorations argon never easy endeavors. New lands forget be instructed, wherein achieving success is indeed very uncertain. Moreover, the mere fact that the country needs to supply all the materialsfrom food to ship repairs, atomic number 18 too expensive. However, although geographic expeditions be masked by doubt and hopeless skies, its out screw dope lead to enormous wealth and makes that will en fit the farming to experience abundance in succeeding years to come. When Portugal never gave up its hopes and dreams regarding land discoveries, such big decision resulted to positive results. At the onset of the 16th century, Portugal pioneered explorations in the whole bunk of Europe, thus, discovering more and new routes to Africa, the Atlantic, Asia and even South America (Portugal n.d). In the beginning, nobody has expected Portugal to literally moderate the world. T he race was then torn with poverty and to a certain extent, economic deterioration (Arnold 2002, p. 22). Given this situation at hand, domination is impartly taken out of the picture. If Portugal push aside non even feed its own people, then it would be readily impossible for it to arrest the removes of land explorations and discoveries. However, this did not prevent the nation from pursuing its dreamsfrom materializing the lead to make its name within the torn pages of history books.It morose out that Portugals seemingly hopeless case is one of its greatest blessings. Since the country was in its severe state, it has no other choice moreover to go a colossal with the explorations. If success seems to be impossible within the domain of land-based expansion, then in that respect is still hope when such is done overseas (Arnold 2002, p.22). As Arnold (2002) explained, Portugals navigation success basically replaced the land-based orientation of wealth and power that was co mpriseed by the evolving Spanish (empire) (p. 22).Factors determining Portugals exploration success There are variant factors that are attributed to Portugals exploration successes. These three are highly characterized by maritime development as well as the undying support assumption by the Portuguese government. The first factor has something to do with Portugals geographic position (Portugal n.d). Portugal hind end be seen along the west side of the Iberian Peninsula (Portugal n.d). Livingstone implied (1993) that the nation is readily blessed with its strategic location (p. 41). It possesses rivers that are long enough to be navigated (Livingstone 1993, p. 41). It has favorable winds (Livingstone 1993, p. 41) that can take ships into their planned journeys or destination. The last but not the least is the existence of raw and organic harbors which creates a perfect and highly suitable setting for maritime development (Livingstone 1993, p. 41). If one has to take a closer look, this aspect alone puts Portugal into a great advantage over its rivals or competitors. Once and for all, circumnavigating the world requires not only human skills, nature as well plays an important role. Although, exceptional navigation ta outgoows are expected to arise, there is no doubt that if nature decides to intervene, the course would be more difficult and complicated as expected. It can be to a fault implied that Portugals geographical design enabled the latter to discover more efficient routes from any angle. The crew can easily seek more unknown playing areas since they exhaust exhaustively reference points that are internal in establishing maps. On the other hand, the second factor can be traced to Portugals developing maritime economy (Portugal, n.d). The ports of Lisbon and Oporto became the cente of commerce and care for the country (Portugal n.d). Mostly of the financial means that were employ to support the voyages came from these trade districts (Portugal, n.d). However, aside from financial bac great power the navigation plans, Maddision (2006) also mentioned that the bays and coast cities of Portugal is abundant enough to supply the needs and demands of the local residents (p.22). Aside from trading per se, it can be seen that Portugal has other ways of gaining incomes, shekels and revenues.But then again, perhaps the greatest contributions of the maritime industry are the vast knowledge and information that Portuguese fisherman has learned due to their unending and continuous immersion with the Atlantic seas (Maddison 2006, p.22). Their mastery of sea winds, tides and weather (Maddison 2006, p.22). It allowed Portuguese explorers and navigators to conduct more research on navigation. Yet, more than anything else, they were able to build ships that can withstand the pressures and hardships brought forth by unfathomable oceans (Maddison 2006, p.22). They created lateen sails and in the long run, they combined it with square sails which allowed them to sail through the South Atlantic and encourage discover more ways or routes in the ness area (Maddison 2006, p.22). Lastly, the third determinant of the Portuguese explorations success stems from the fact that its monarchy readily showed support and encouragement for these plans (Portugal n.d). The government ensured that tax privileges and insurances are available for both the ship owners and navigators (Portugal n.d). As a thing of fact, it is not only the king that readily lent a helping hand to make these undertakings possible. Even members of the aristocracy assured that they can be pillars of strength and encouragement (Portugal n.d). Obviously, without the systems support and permission, the voyages would not happen. As previously mentioned, even if there are enough materials and supplies if the monarchy is not open to the idea, then Portugals domination may not come into place.The essential role of the Portuguese government, in this aspect can be brie fly understood in several(prenominal) points. Once and for all, the tax regulations enabled the nation to satisfy the prerogatives of exploration and at the same time ensure a healthy lifestyle for its local citizens. Second, the monarchy served as a strong influence for both the explorers and local residents. If the king refused such plans, then the public would not be able to recognize its value and importance.Since local residents are the ones who are chiefly involved in ware works, the explorers would thrust a hard and difficult time convincing these people most their dreams and visions, if the king per se, would show doubts regarding the matter. Moreover, the monarchy is in charge of making decisions on how they can possible benefit from the discoveries that they madeto be more specific, the Portuguese government is in charge of devising strategies on how they can possible gain net profit and revenues on new routes and land areas. This is important for unless the people kno w that they benefit from it, they would continue to support such plan.A Brief History of Portugal Exploration In order to further reasons behind the success ad failure of the Portuguese exploration, it is best to have a brief discussion or outline of the nations navigation history. As mentioned earlier, the contributions of Portugal in the world can neither be questioned not taken for granted. Even though it has eventually declined in the long years to come, it cannot be discounted that Portugal is one of the few nations that have managed to maintain and still control its colonies by the end of the 19th century (Diffie & Winius 1977, p. 4). The mere fact that it was able to sustain such set-up exemplifies its power and strength. Diffie and winius (1977) explained that Portugal was inspired by the accomplishments of the Han and Roman Empires (p.4). However, since it cannot fully embarked on land-based conquests and imperialism, discovering other lands became the last recourse, and as discussed, natures blessings made a way for the nation embarked on long journeys and voyages. The foundations of the Portuguese exploration can be traced to as far as 1415 (Wiarda 200, p. 21). In those times, Ceuta was then considered as the cracker bonbon of raciness trade in the west (Wiarda 2000, p.21). Portugal has managed to put Ceuta under its control and thus the urge to control more lands became irresistible. While Ceuta was then an important investment for Portugal, Wiarda (2000), however line of businessd that Portugals main goal by that time was to spread Christianity to Morrocco (p.4). Within the aspect of colonialism, religion is an indespensbale tool. The Portuguese readily used the matter to interact with the natives. Due to language barriers, it would be hard for both the colonizers and the colony to understand or communicate with each other. Thus, the concept of having a Supreme be bridged the gap between the two races. But on a closer examination, the downfal l of Morocco, inspired many of Portuguese warriors and soldiers to bring more honor, glory and prestigiousness to their very own mother country (Wiarda 200, p.187). In addition to that, Prince Henry who happened to be the very first supporter of Portuguese explorations have heard stories from prisoners about lands and areas that were still undiscovered (Portugal n.d). The capture of Morocco allowed Prince Henry to have his first taste of the African cost (Portugal n.d). Having said this, indeed, his curiosity was further heightened. The excitement and passion to conquer more lands became stronger than ever.Prince Henry The Navigator The success in Ceuta encouraged Prince Henry to show his undying support to explorations. Prince Henry can be best expound as someone who knew how to transform his visions and ideals into realistic issues and concerns. The prince knows that explorations may not necessarily yield to positive results. But this did not discourage him. Despite of the fact that there is a strong enthusiasm and excitement on Prince Henrys part, Wiarda (2000) stated that this does not mean that that the young leader was already aware of explorations benefits and advantages (p.21). consort to Wiarda (2000) Prince Henrys primary concern by then was the budding market for exotic and wild brutes (p.21). But in the long run, explorations commercial benefit was slowly embedded into the princes young mind. On the other hand, the materialization of Prince Henrys dreams came into the picture during the reign of Joao II (Wiarda 2000, p. 21). The foundations of an exploration plan have been successfully laid out. Gallagher (2003) noted that the first move was to discover a route from Africa that can easily lead to India (p.5). With all these endeavors, the monarchy assured that they will turn to all the transactions and see to it that it profiteering activities would be efficiently managed (Gallagher 2003, p. 80). The competition against Spain led Portugal to keep its navigation development in extreme secrecy (Gallagher 2003, p.5). Even the voyages per se were kept confidential (Gallagher 2003, p5). During those times, Cape Bojador was seen as the end of the world (Wiarda 2000, p.187). Since there is already a signal pr permission from the monarchy to explore more, Prince Henry in render, challenged his men to go beyond the limits of Cape Bojardor (Wiarda 2000, p. 187). The whole crew landed in Madeira in 1420 and seven years after, the Portuguese explorers made their first whole tone in Azores (Keefee et. al 1977, p.60). This was also the time when Portugal finally confirmed that Cape Bojador was not the worlds end point (Keefe et.al 1977, p.60). This is simply the start of Portugals domination. Even though the so-called Navigator died in 1460 (Portugal, n.d), his legacies was continued and still promoted by the succeeding Portugal rulers. Historians and members of the academe outlined several distinct reasons regarding Prince Henrys obsessions. One of this is the urge to know more lands beyond Cape Bojador (Portugal n.d). In an era wherein bigger colonies equate to more economic successes, going beyond Cape Bojadors geographical limitations is an outright advantage. Another reason is Portugals aim to develop trade relations to other areas or counties (Portugal n.d). There is also the aim to study the strength of their rivals and at the same time, ensure that battles will be waged against those who opposed Christianity and therefore ensure that the religion would proliferate (Portugal n.d).Reasons for Exploration In normal and not only for Portugal, there are three determinants of why explorations happen or occur. The first one has something to do with the spice trade (Roupp 2001, p. 236). Spices such as nutmeg, mace, ginger, cinnamon and paper are pretty general in the European regions trade (Roupp 2001, p. 236). The Ottomans were able to take control of the Eastern Mediterranean barter trade (Roupp 2001, p. 236) Because of this, European envoys had no other choice but to look for alternative routes. Since spices are very much in demand, there is no doubt that to make a spice supplier would indeed result to an increase in profits and revenues. The supply is low and the demands are high. Therefore, those who are able to satisfy the demand can also ask for a higher price. This argument are also supported by Kiple and Omelas (2000, p.436). Kiple and Omelas (2000) mentioned that many European countries, most especially those which are engaged in exploration are also seeking for a new route to get a steady supply of spices (p. 436). This according to the two, prompted competing nations to further improve their navigation tactics and skills. The competition is stiff and they cannot remain calm. However, as for this case, since Portugal has already explored the areas beyond Cape Bojador, the challenge became an easy feat for the country. During the initial steps, it was the Arabs that has tot al control over the matter (Wolpert 1999, p.45). However, a small fleet, headed by Vasco de Gama made the Arabs surrender (Wolpert 1999, p.45). According to Wolpert (1999), although De Gamas success enabled Portugal to establish a monopoly over spice trade (p.45). His triumph and glory is more than enough to pay from all the expenses that were spent during his journey (Wolpert 1999, p.45). Roupp (2001) also noted that technology can be also considered as one of Portugals motivating force for explorations (p. 236). The technological aspect means that as man continue to develop materials and tools to satisfy their needs, this brought them other opportunities. As for the case of Portugal, since they are able to build ships and sails that are highly capable or navigating the earth, soon they found it that if they can further enhance these materials and incorporate several functions such as incorporating military weapons like the cannons, for poser, they can easily defeat their enemies and those who are creating conflicts and hindrances (Roupp 2001, p. 236). Lastly, Roupp (2001) stressed that curiosity levels were readily high during the Renaissance period and thus, it became a motivational force for many nations to explore more of the unknown world (p.236). In the meantime, if one has to critically assess it, it is apparent that the goal for profit and revenues best explains the intensity of Portuguese explorations. As readily discussed, the passing years allowed Portugal to diversify its economic hold and control. Prince Henrys focus on the exotic animal market shifted into another realm since the monarchy has also recognized the other benefits of voyages and expeditions. It can be also remembered that Portugal is also one of the pioneers of the slave trade in Africa.Since they have discovered more lands in the said continent, colonization was reshaped. From goods that are bartered, human trade became popular too. The cheap labor rendered by captured slaves and prisoners were seen as a good source of profit and income. Moreover, there is also the spice trade which further strengthened Portugals domination. Since they basically spearheaded the exploration quests and technology, they have readily capitalized on it. The return of investments was more than what they have expected.Portugals Failure Although Portugal was basically at the apex of its exploration successes the country failed to see certain events that would eventually lead to its bitter downfall. by chance this can be best explained by the countrys inability to manage all its colonies (Portugal n.d). It has been carefully discussed in this paper that Portugal was able to discover more lands. This readily means that once they have settled in those areas, they have to efficiently supervise all the activities that occur in it. This situation should not come as a surprise or it is rather expected. First of all, it is pretty impossible for Portugal to directly manage its colonies sinc e they are miles away from each other. The empire has to hop out its people to those areas in order to ensure that everything falls in their proper places. But distant lands prohibit simultaneous coordination and interaction among the leaders. For the monarchy, it is pretty hard for it to establish appropriate solutions and regulations for their colonies unless they have actual experience of the problem that is being manifested in a particular area. It would take months and years before updates and reports can be turn over to the King. The moment that actions are ratified and certain laws are promulgated, there is a strong tendency that the problem has already become worse or the approaches used are no longer applicable. In addition to that, viceroys and appointed leaders have to be financially supported by the monarchy. This is done to ensure that area rulers have enough supply of food and other materials to sustain their everyday lives and activities. But of course, the financia l support came from the local residents taxes and hard-earned money. In the long run, there are also instances wherein the monarchy can no longer back-up and support these needs. This is most especially true if Portuguese leaders have already built their families in their several(prenominal) colonies. As a result, the profits and revenues that they have collected from their colonies are barely enough for them to extend their stays and manage their specific domains. It is also important to note that distance issues are also prone to illegal activities. Appointed leaders could be tempted by the seemingly lucrative activities that are present in their colonies. When monitoring, organise and interacting are rarely practiced, then there is no doubt that Portuguese found itself on the losing end. The last but definitely not the least is the conclusion of King Sebastian (Portugal n.d). This sad event proved to be a golden opportunity for Spain. King Philip II, who was the Spains rulers and King Sebastians uncle took over the latters position. What happened to Portugal then was that, it became Spains province (Portugal n.d). Relatively, the techniques and strategies that Portugal created and developed were exploited by Spain. Thus all the forthcoming success was now done in the name of Spain preferably of Portugal.Conclusion Portugal is basically engulfed with the sweet promises of explorations and land discoveries. Although Roupp (2001) suggested that curiosity plays an important role, this aspect is outlasted by the need for profit and revenues (p.236). Once and for all, since Portugal has captured Ceuta, they have already recognized that if they can discover more lands, they can use the domains working force to their own advantage. They can ask the natives to produce goods that are widely popular in the European market. Moreover, it is pretty impossible to conclude that Portugal simply tried to know new routes for curiositys sake alone. The spice trade for exam ple and the countrys domination and supremacy on the said area are manifestations of the unrelenting drive for both economic and geographic expansion. However, since offshore concern was not efficiently executed, such led to the downfall of what was once considered as the globes superpower.ReferencesArnold, D. 2002. The Age of Discovery, 1400-1600. Routledge USADiffie, B and Winius, D. (1977). Foundations of the Portuguese Empire. manganese, USA University of Minnesota PressGallagher, A. (2003). Prince Henry the Navigator Pioneer of Modern Exploration. New York Rosen Publishing Group IncKeefe, E. et. al (1977). Area Handbook for Portugal. Washington, DC U.S. Government Printing daubKiple, K and Omelas, K. 2000. The Cambridge World History of Food. Cambridge University Press EdinburghLivingstone, D. 1993. The Geographical Tradition Episodes in the History of A Contested Enterprise. Blackwell Publishing USAMaddisson, A. 2006. The World Economy. OECD FrancePortugal n.d. Univers ity of Calgary. Retrieved 18 swear out 2008 from http//www.ucalgary.ca/applied_history/tutor/eurvoya/portuguese.htmlRoupp, H. 2001. How to Prepare for SAT II. Barrons New YorkWiarda, I. (2000). Handbook of Portuguese Studies. USA Xlibris CorporationWolpert, S. 1999. India. University of California Press Berkeley