Magellan's expedition was the first to circumnavigate the globe because it was the first to successfully cross the Pacific Ocean, thus paving the way to complete a full circumnavigation of the Earth.
Magellan's expedition was meticulously prepared over several years. Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese navigator in the service of Spain, aimed to find a maritime route to the Spice Islands by circumnavigating South America. To do this, he had to obtain financial support from King Charles I of Spain, as well as permission to conduct this risky expedition.
Magellan recruited a team of experienced sailors from various European countries. He also ensured that his ships, especially the fleet of five caravels and galleons, were equipped with all the necessary materials for a long and perilous journey. Food provisions, sufficient drinking water, weapons, navigation tools, and maps were carefully prepared to face the unknown challenges that awaited them.
Training the crew was a crucial step in the preparation. Magellan made sure his men were trained in the latest navigation techniques, disciplined, and ready to face the dangers of the ocean. Each member of the crew had to be prepared to endure long hours at sea and the often difficult conditions on board the ships.
Finally, logistical planning was essential. Magellan meticulously mapped out the expedition's itinerary, taking into account the winds, ocean currents, and potential stops. The meticulous preparations made before departure were essential to ensure the smooth running of this extraordinary adventure.
During Magellan's expedition, many discoveries were made. First, the crew sailed through the strait that now bears the name of the famous explorer. This passage between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean opened up new possibilities for maritime trade, offering a shortcut to the rich lands of Asia.
Next, the expedition reached the Philippines, where Magellan himself died in a local battle. Despite this loss, the crew members continued their voyage westward. They thus proved that the Earth was indeed round by returning to their starting point from the west, confirming the theory of Earth's circumnavigation.
During their journey, Magellan's sailors also mapped many previously unknown islands and coasts, thus contributing to the expansion of geographical knowledge at the time. Their voyage opened up new maritime routes and laid the foundations for future intercontinental explorations and exchanges.
After crossing the strait that now bears his name, Ferdinand Magellan and his crew sailed through the Pacific Ocean. The journey was extremely difficult, marked by hunger, thirst, and diseases. Despite these challenges, Magellan continued to push forward, determined to achieve his goal.
Upon reaching the Philippines, Magellan became involved in a local conflict and was killed in battle. However, his expedition continued under the command of Juan Sebastián Elcano. Eventually, after crossing the Indian Ocean, the Cape of Good Hope was passed, marking the first circumnavigation of the Earth.
Magellan's expedition lasted a total of three years, and out of the five ships that initially left Spain, only one returned safely, laden with precious spices. This circumnavigation not only proved that the Earth was round, but also opened up new trade routes and demonstrated man's capabilities to explore and conquer the limits of his world.
Did you know that Magellan's expedition was composed of five ships and over 200 men at the start, but only one caravel and 18 men managed to return after three years of travel?
Did you know that during his round-the-world voyage, Magellan's expedition discovered the strait that now bears his name, allowing for the connection between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean?
Did you know that Magellan's expedition was the first to prove that the Earth is indeed round, by completing a full voyage around the globe despite facing numerous difficulties along the way?
Magellan aimed to find a commercial route to the Spice Islands by circumnavigating the Americas.
While navigating through the Strait of Magellan and crossing the Pacific Ocean, despite the storms, hunger, and illnesses.
The discovery of the Strait of Magellan and the first circumnavigation of the Earth are the main ones.
Magellan died in the Philippines during the expedition, but his crew continued and completed the journey.
It allowed to map new regions, confirm the sphericity of the Earth, and open new trade routes.
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