Socials 8-2: The Navigators

Today we looked at some of the key explorers and the technology that allowed them to more confidently leave the sight of land.

We also watched a short clip that showed the trade/whaling routes of the nineteenth century.  I discussed some of the factors that we need to remember when we think about sea exploration.  Sometimes we forget that not only wind is acting on the ship: there are also ocean currents.  When we look at the bottom left of the map in the video, we see lots of traffic in the area of strong winds called the "Roaring Forties" (40 degrees south latitude) between the Cape of Good Hope and western Australia.  Here is the link.

There is no homework unless you have not completed today's "Portuguese and Spanish Explorers" study guide.