Late Medieval European Crisis and Portuguese Maritime Expansion

Vocabulary flashcards reviewing the 14th-century European crisis, the Portuguese succession crisis of 1383–1385, and the conditions and social motivations behind Portuguese maritime expansion.

Famine (14th-Century European Crisis)

A major crisis factor in 14th-century Europe caused by a drop in production, which led to a rise in the prices of goods.

Plague (14th-Century European Crisis)

A devastating health crisis fueled by poor hygiene conditions and physically weakened bodies.

Hundred Years' War (1337–1453)

The principal European conflict of the 14th century, noted for its long duration, fought battles, and severe political and economic impact.

1383–1385 Crisis

A Portuguese succession crisis triggered after the death of D. Fernando, involving battles and a siege of Lisbon.

D. Beatriz

The daughter of D. Fernando whose claim to the Portuguese throne during the 1383–1385 crisis was supported by the Nobility and the Clergy.

D. João I

The son of D. Pedro who was backed by the Common People and the Bourgeoisie, and later acclaimed King of Portugal at the Cortes de Coimbra.

Battle of Aljubarrota

A decisive battle in the 1383–1385 crisis that followed the siege of Lisbon, leading to the consolidation of D. João I's rule.

Cortes de Coimbra

The assembly where D. João I was officially elected King of Portugal following the resolution of the 1383–1385 crisis.

Portuguese Geographic Conditions

Natural factors favoring Portuguese expansion, including location on the far western edge of Europe, good natural harbors, and established fishing activities.

Caravel and Nau

The two primary types of naval construction vessels that enabled Portuguese maritime expansion.

Nautical Instruments of the Expansion

Technological tools enabling astronomical navigation, specifically the compass (bússola), astrolabe (astrolábio), cross-staff (balestilha), and quadrant (quadrante).

Bolinar

A sailing technique meaning to navigate against the wind.

15th-Century Motivations for European Expansion

Economic and demographic growth, commercial revival, the demand for precious metals, rising prices of Eastern merchandise, and the expansion of domestic and foreign markets.

Crown (Expansion Motivations)

The social group motivated to discover new lands, expand Portuguese territory, legitimize the ruling dynasty, and sponsor navigators' studies.

Nobility (Expansion Motivations)

The social group driven to acquire more land, obtain new titles, gain social recognition, and amass greater wealth.

Common People (Povo)

The social group motivated to improve their living conditions, who actively built and supplied the ships for voyages.

Clergy (Expansion Motivations)

The religious group motivated to spread the Christian faith, increase the number of believers, and provide spiritual support to sailors.

Bourgeoisie (Expansion Motivations)

The merchant class seeking new commercial markets, trade routes, and products to increase their wealth, who also financed many expeditions.