A small, highly maneuverable sailing ship developed in the 15th century by the Portuguese is significant to global history. This vessel, generally lateen-rigged, allowed for sailing closer to the wind than earlier European ship designs. It typically possessed two or three masts, contributing to its speed and agility.
The development and utilization of this ship design facilitated European exploration and trade expansion during the Age of Exploration. Its ability to navigate challenging coastal waters and sail long distances made possible voyages to Africa, Asia, and eventually the Americas. The resulting increase in global interaction had profound impacts on global economies, cultural exchange, and the distribution of power.
