"Discusses the conditions in Europe that gave impetus to the age of exploration--the growth of trade, the rise of a strong, merchant class, the scientific awakening to new ideas about man and his world, and the improvements in the design of ships and navigation instruments. Examines the role of Prince Henry of Portugal in the early explorations and explains the significance of Vasco da Gama's discovery of a sea-route to India." - Summary from Worldcat.