4.1 - Technological Innovations: 1450-1750

Historical Development

• Knowledge, Scientific learning, and technology from Classical, Islamic, and Asian worlds spread, facilitating European technological development and innovation. 

• The developments included the production of new tools, innovations in ship designs, and an improved understanding of regional wind and current patterns – all of which made transoceanic travel and trade possible.

Astrolabe

• Developed by Islamic Scholars
  • Calculates Ramadan and Prayer times
• Entered Europe through Muslim Spain
  • Portuguese created the Mariners Astrolabe
  • Helped determine latitude by measuring against the sun or known star. 

Compass

• Originates in China
• Embraced by Indian Ocean traders
• Improved upon in Europe 

Lateen Sail

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1PSXm8Aqk0

Caravel: Portuguese

• Based on the Islamic garb used in Islamic Spain
  • (a type of dhow)
  • Dhow- a lateen-rigged ship with one or two masts, used in the Indian Ocean.