December 24

Vasco da Gama was a pioneering Portuguese navigator born in 1469 who opened the sea route from Europe to India in 1498. Appointed by King Manuel I, he led voyages that expanded Portuguese trade, bringing spices and other riches back to Europe. His discovery transformed global commerce, marking the beginning of a century of European maritime dominance. Da Gama later served as the Governor of Portuguese India, where he enforced Portuguese interests and strengthened colonial administration. Despite facing navigational challenges and conflicts with rival powers, his achievements established a strategic foothold for Portugal in Asia. He died in Cochin in 1524, leaving a legacy as one of history’s great explorers whose voyages reshaped the world economy.