The American Journey © 2012

Chapter 2: Exploring the Americas

Web Activity Lesson Plans

"Prince Henry the Navigator"

Introduction
In this chapter students learned about the exploration of the Americas by Spanish and Portuguese explorers. Prince Henry of Portugal helped ignite the era of exploration with his desire to map and explore new areas. In this activity, students will learn more about the life and times of Henry the Navigator.

Lesson Description
Students will learn some of the background of Prince Henry's explorations. They will read about the situation of Portugal during this time. After answering several questions, they will use the material they learn to make inferences about Prince Henry the Navigator as a leader.

Instructional Objectives

  1. The learner will be able to analyze information about Prince Henry the Navigator.
  2. The learner will be able to put Prince Henry in the context of Portugal during the Age of Exploration.
  3. The learner will be able to use the information they learn to speculate about an important historical figure's position and world view.

Student Web Activity Answers

  1. Henry and his brothers invaded Ceuta so that they could have knightly honor. It was important because the invasion provided Portugal with more accurate maps of the African coast.
  2. He was an African chief taken prisoner by Prince Henry's 1441 expedition to Africa. He was important because he provided information about land-based trade routes through the continent.
  3. African translators could provide information about the area and communicate peacefully with people inhabiting the area.
  4. He wanted to know the country beyond Cape Bojador ; to establish trade relations; to determine the strength of his enemies in the region; to seek allies to help wage battles against the enemies of Christianity; and to spread Christianity.
  5. Student answers will vary but should be supported with information from the Web site and should note that the motto means "desire to do well."
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