Henry the Navigator

Infante Dom Henrique of Portugal, later known as Henry the Navigator, was born to King John I of Portugal and Philippa of Lancaster. He was the third son of the royal couple.

Henry begins his formal education, receiving instruction in literature, languages, and the sciences, as well as military training, under the guidance of his father's court.

Henry, along with his father and brothers, participates in the successful capture of the North African city of Ceuta from the Moors, marking his first military campaign.

Henry establishes the School of Navigation in Sagres, where he gathers scholars, cartographers, and navigators to advance maritime exploration and technology.

Henry marries Isabel of Viseu, a noblewoman from the Portuguese nobility, strengthening his political alliances and social status.

Henry is appointed Governor of the Order of Christ, a religious and military order that plays a significant role in financing and supporting his exploratory voyages.

Under Henry's patronage, Portuguese navigator Gil Eanes successfully rounds Cape Bojador, a significant milestone that opens up the West African coast to further exploration.

Henry supports the establishment of the Portuguese slave trade, bringing African slaves to Portugal and initiating a centuries-long transatlantic trade.

Pope Nicholas V issues the papal bull Romanus Pontifex, granting Henry and the Portuguese crown exclusive rights to explore and exploit the Atlantic and African territories.

Henry the Navigator dies in Sagres, Portugal, leaving a legacy as a key figure in the Age of Discovery and a patron of maritime exploration.