Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Caribbean History Practice Exam

Portugal is recognized for its significant role in European exploration even before Christopher Columbus set sail in 1492. During the 15th century, Portugal became a leader in maritime exploration, primarily driven by the desire to find new trade routes and expand its influence.

Prominent figures such as Prince Henry the Navigator played crucial roles in advancing navigational knowledge, encouraging voyages along the West African coast. Portuguese explorers, like Vasco da Gama, successfully navigated around Africa to reach India, establishing vital maritime paths that would enhance trade and commerce. This extensive exploration laid the foundation for the Age of Discovery, influencing future explorations, including those carried out by Columbus under the Spanish flag.

Other countries, such as Spain, France, and England, did engage in exploration, but their more notable exploits tended to follow those of the Portuguese or were influenced by their advancements in navigation and maritime skills. Thus, Portugal's earlier and organized efforts in oceanic exploration mark it as the European nation with a specific history of exploration prior to Columbus's landmark voyage.