Guide Note:

Vasco da Gama was a 15th century Portuguese explorer who first sailed the sea route to India.

Fast Facts:

1. Born: Unknown; presumably in the 1460s
2. Birthplace: Sines, Portugal
3. Father was a member of the Portuguese court
4. Died: December 24, 1524 in India
5. Occupation: Explorer, military naval commander
6. Spouse: Catarina de Ataíde

Very little is known of da Gama's early life. He was born to a noble family between 1460 and 1469. His father was reportedly a military man and a member of the King's court. Da Gama was educated, as noble boys of the time were, and prepared to follow in his family's military tradition. In 1492, King John II of Portugal sent him on a mission to capture French ships that had been harassing Portuguese shipping vessels.

Da Gama joined an expedition led by his father to open a sea route to Asia. When his father died, command was transferred to da Gama, who sailed from Lisbon in 1497 with a crew of 150. The expedition reached Calcutta a year later, after making stops in South Africa, Mozambique and Mombasa. Da Gama was rewarded with land, money and titles upon his return to Portugal.

Da Gama was sent back to India in 1502 following reports of violence when local Hindus massacred Portuguese settlers, reportedly at the urging of Arab traders. When da Gama arrived, he captured an Arab merchant vessel, which contained goods and passengers. He reportedly locked the passengers, including women and children, in the ship and set it on fire, sinking it and killing all aboard. He then demanded that Arabs be banned from Calcutta after reaching an agreement with local rulers. Another battle with the Arabs occurred in 1503 during his trip home.

Da Gama received further honors upon his return to Lisbon. He functioned as an adviser to the King on India and managed his estate in Vidigueira. In 1524, he was sent to India for the third time to function as viceroy. He fell ill and died upon his arrival on December 24, 1524.