Portuguese explorer Prince Henry; known as the Navigator; was the first European to methodically explore Africa and the oceanic route to the Indies. From his residence in the Algarve region of southern Portugal; he directed successive expeditions to circumnavigate Africa and reach India.

In 1420; Henry sent an expedition to secure the uninhabited but strategic island of Madeira. In 1425; he tried to secure the Canary Islands as well; but these were already under firm Castilian control. In 1431; another Portuguese expedition reached and annexed the Azores. Pictures From History