The Portuguese were the first Europeans to extensively explore and establish trade relationships along the west coast of Africa between the 15th and 16th centuries. They sought to circumvent Arab control of trade routes and gain access to gold and other resources. Key events included establishing coastal forts and trading posts, Diaz rounding the Cape of Good Hope in 1488, and da Gama's voyage connecting Europe and India around the Cape in 1497-1499. The Dutch later supplanted Portuguese control over sea trade and began regularly rounding the Cape of Good Hope in the 16th century to establish resupply stations for trade with Asia.

1. European Contact With Africa The Portuguese and Dutch ‘Explore’ the African Continent *Notes are for Dana Hall classroom use only. Reproduction of These materials is strictly forbidden. Bibliographic information for Images available upon request.