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ClearHorizon News

The Greatest Portuguese Explorers

Author

Sarah Rodriguez

Updated on January 17, 2026

Birthdate: March 4, 1394

Sun Sign: Pisces

Birthplace: Porto, Portugal

Died: November 13, 1460

Henry the Navigator was a central figure in the 15th-century European maritime expansion and maritime discoveries. He is credited with the early development of Portuguese maritime trade and exploration. He is also credited with developing a new and much lighter ship called the caravel, which changed the way sailors sailed at that time.