1519-1522 circumnavigation of the earth

Definition

The 1519-1522 circumnavigation of the earth was a monumental expedition led by Ferdinand Magellan, marking the first successful journey to sail around the world. This voyage not only demonstrated the vastness of the Earth and opened up new maritime routes but also significantly impacted European perspectives on geography, trade, and colonization during the Age of Exploration. The journey highlighted the possibilities for global trade and fostered greater interest in exploration by both Spain and Portugal.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Magellan's expedition set sail from Spain on September 20, 1519, with five ships and about 270 men, but only one ship, the Victoria, returned home in 1522 with 18 survivors.
2. The journey took over three years and covered approximately 40,000 miles, providing crucial insights into global geography and the size of the Earth.
3. During the voyage, Magellan discovered a passage through South America now known as the Strait of Magellan, which allowed access to the Pacific Ocean.
4. This circumnavigation demonstrated that there were vast oceans separating continents and significantly altered European views on trade routes, leading to increased maritime exploration.
5. The expedition also paved the way for Spanish colonization in the Philippines, where Magellan was killed in 1521 during a conflict with local leaders.

Review Questions

• How did Magellan's circumnavigation impact European views on geography and exploration?
  • Magellan's circumnavigation profoundly changed European views on geography by confirming that the Earth was round and much larger than previously believed. It revealed the existence of vast oceans separating continents, which opened up new maritime routes for trade. This successful journey encouraged further exploration as nations sought to capitalize on newfound territories and trade opportunities.
• Evaluate the significance of the Treaty of Tordesillas in relation to the outcomes of Magellan's voyage.
  • The Treaty of Tordesillas established a division of newly discovered lands between Spain and Portugal, influencing how they approached exploration. Following Magellan's circumnavigation, this treaty became crucial because it dictated territorial claims over areas he discovered, including parts of Asia. The outcomes of his voyage reinforced Spain's position as a dominant maritime power and facilitated its expansion into new territories.
• Analyze how the 1519-1522 circumnavigation influenced the development of the Spanish Empire and its global trade networks.
  • The 1519-1522 circumnavigation had a lasting impact on the development of the Spanish Empire by establishing Spanish claims to new territories in Asia, particularly the Philippines. This not only expanded Spain's colonial holdings but also integrated them into a global trade network that connected Europe with Asia and the Americas. The newfound trade routes led to increased wealth for Spain through trade in spices, silk, and other goods, which fueled further exploration and conquests across various continents.

Related terms

Ferdinand Magellan:

A Portuguese explorer who led the first expedition to successfully circumnavigate the globe, although he died before completing the journey.

Treaty of Tordesillas:

An agreement between Spain and Portugal in 1494 that divided newly discovered lands outside Europe between them, affecting subsequent explorations and claims.

Spanish Empire:

A vast empire established by Spain that included territories across the Americas, Asia, and Europe, significantly expanded as a result of explorations like Magellan's.