Bartolomeu Dias

Bartolomeu Dias was born to a noble family in the Alentejo region of Portugal.

Dias begins his formal education, focusing on navigation and maritime skills, which would later be crucial in his explorations.

Dias joins the royal court of King Afonso V, where he serves as a squire and begins his career in maritime affairs.

Dias marries Maria Dias, a woman from a noble family, solidifying his social and political standing.

Dias begins his naval career, serving in the Portuguese fleet and gaining experience in navigation and ship command.

Dias participates in an expedition to the Gold Coast (modern-day Ghana), gaining valuable experience in long-distance sea travel.

King John II appoints Dias to lead an expedition to find a sea route around Africa to India.

Dias sets sail from Lisbon with three ships, aiming to explore the southern coast of Africa.

Dias becomes the first European to sail around the southern tip of Africa, naming it the Cape of Storms. King John II later renames it the Cape of Good Hope.

Dias returns to Portugal with valuable information about the new sea route, though he does not reach India.

Dias advises King John II and other explorers on navigating the Indian Ocean, contributing to the success of later expeditions.

Dias continues to serve as a royal advisor, sharing his expertise in maritime exploration and navigation.

Dias joins Vasco da Gama's expedition to India, serving as a pilot and navigator.

Dias and the expedition successfully reach India, establishing a new trade route for Portugal.

Dias dies in a storm while on a return voyage from India, near the Cape of Good Hope, ending his remarkable career as an explorer.