What did a caravel do?

Answered by Michael Wilson

A caravel was a type of sailing ship that was developed by the Portuguese in the 15th century. Its main purpose was to explore and navigate along the West African coast and into the Atlantic Ocean. The caravel was highly maneuverable and versatile, making it ideal for long-distance voyages and exploration.

The caravel was known for its speed and ability to sail against the wind, thanks to its unique design and the use of lateen sails. The lateen sails were triangular in shape and allowed the ship to catch the wind from different angles, enabling it to sail in any direction, even against the wind. This was a significant advantage for the caravel, as it allowed sailors to explore new territories and navigate through unpredictable weather conditions.

One of the primary roles of the caravel was to facilitate trade and establish trade routes with different regions. It was used to transport goods, such as spices, textiles, and precious metals, between Europe, Africa, and Asia. The caravel’s maneuverability made it suitable for navigating through narrow and shallow rivers, opening up new trade opportunities for the Portuguese.

Furthermore, the caravel played a crucial role in the Age of Discovery, a period of exploration and expansion initiated by the Portuguese. These ships were used to discover new lands, chart unknown territories, and establish colonies. Caravels were instrumental in the Portuguese exploration of the African coast, leading to the discovery of new trade routes and the establishment of trading posts and colonies along the way.

The caravel’s small size and shallow draft allowed it to access areas that larger ships couldn’t, such as shallow bays and coastal regions. This made it easier for sailors to explore and map the coastline, making significant contributions to the field of cartography. The caravel’s maneuverability also made it less vulnerable to attacks from pirates and enemy ships, providing a level of security for the crew and cargo.

The caravel was a small, highly-maneuverable sailing ship developed by the Portuguese in the 15th century. It was primarily used for exploration, trade, and colonization. Its speed and ability to sail against the wind made it ideal for long-distance voyages, while its small size and maneuverability allowed it to navigate through narrow and shallow waters. The caravel played a significant role in the Age of Discovery and contributed to the expansion of trade and the exploration of new lands.