Benfica to Brazil: Pero Vaz de Caminha's Epic Voyage of Discovery

Benfica to Brazil

by Pero Vaz de Caminha

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1169 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	312 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	288 pages
Item Weight	:	14.4 ounces
Dimensions	:	6.14 x 0.6 x 9.21 inches

FREE

The Portuguese Expedition of 1500

In March 1500, a Portuguese fleet of 13 ships set sail from Lisbon, bound for the Indies. The expedition was led by Pedro Alvares Cabral, a seasoned navigator who had previously explored the African coast. Aboard one of the ships was Pero Vaz de Caminha, a royal scribe and notary. Caminha's task was to document the expedition's findings and discoveries.

The fleet sailed south along the African coast, then turned westward into the Atlantic Ocean. On April 21, 1500, land was sighted on the horizon. Cabral named the land "Terra de Vera Cruz" (Land of the True Cross) in honor of the Christian feast day that fell on that date. The Portuguese had stumbled upon Brazil.

Pero Vaz de Caminha's Letter

Pero Vaz de Caminha wrote a detailed letter to King Manuel I of Portugal, describing the expedition's arrival in Brazil. His letter provides a vivid account of the land, its people, and the events that transpired during the fleet's stay.

Caminha described the Brazilian coast as a "paradise," with lush vegetation, abundant wildlife, and a temperate climate. He marveled at the size and beauty of the trees, the variety of birds and animals, and the crystal-clear waters.

Caminha also described the native Brazilians, who he called "Indians." He noted their dark skin, long hair, and lack of clothing. He observed that they lived in communal villages, hunted and gathered for sustenance, and possessed a simple but rich culture.

Caminha's letter is an invaluable source of information about the early exploration of Brazil. It provides a firsthand account of the land, its people, and the events that led to the establishment of the first Portuguese colony in South America.

The Significance of Caminha's Letter

Pero Vaz de Caminha's letter played a significant role in the history of Brazil and Portugal. It was the first detailed description of the land that would become Brazil, and it helped to shape European perceptions of the continent.

Caminha's letter also helped to justify the Portuguese claim to Brazil. By providing detailed information about the land and its people, Caminha helped to convince the Portuguese king that Brazil was a valuable and worthy possession.

In addition to its historical significance, Caminha's letter is also a valuable literary work. It is considered a masterpiece of early Portuguese prose, and it has been translated into many languages. Today, it is still widely read and studied by historians, scholars, and literary enthusiasts alike.

Benfica to Brazil

by Pero Vaz de Caminha

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1169 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	312 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	288 pages
Item Weight	:	14.4 ounces
Dimensions	:	6.14 x 0.6 x 9.21 inches

FREE