Vasco da Gama - Facts for Kids

Vasco da Gama’s face appeared on Portuguese money and stamps.

Vasco da Gama’s journals helped other explorers plan their own voyages.

Vasco da Gama inspired many young Portuguese people to become sailors.

Vasco da Gama’s discoveries helped create new maps of the world.

Vasco da Gama’s route made it easier for people to travel between continents.

Historical Context

Vasco da Gama lived during a time called the Age of Discovery.

Vasco da Gama’s voyages happened about five years after Christopher Columbus sailed to the Americas.

Vasco da Gama helped Portugal compete with other European countries in exploration.

Vasco da Gama’s discoveries led to the first global trade routes.

Vasco da Gama lived during a time when the idea that the Earth was round was already well-established among educated Europeans.

Vasco da Gama’s time was known as the Renaissance period in Europe.

Vasco da Gama helped prove that Africa could be sailed around.

Vasco da Gama lived when many people still thought sea monsters existed.

Vasco da Gama explored during a time when spices were worth more than gold.

Adventures & Challenges

Vasco da Gama had to repair his ships using materials found on distant shores.

Vasco da Gama had to navigate through waters full of hidden reefs.

Vasco da Gama once sailed for 93 days without seeing land.

Honors & Recognition

Vasco da Gama was made a Count by the King of Portugal.

Vasco da Gama received a hero’s welcome when he returned to Portugal.

Vasco da Gama has many monuments dedicated to him around the world.

Vasco da Gama’s family was given special privileges by the Portuguese crown.

Vasco da Gama’s name is on the Portuguese Football Club in Goa, India.

Vasco da Gama has a crater on the Moon named after him.

Vasco da Gama’s image appeared on Portuguese coins for many years.

Vasco da Gama’s birthplace in Sines is now a museum.