What was the primary focus of the Portuguese navigation school established by Prince Henry?

The primary focus of the Portuguese navigation school established by Prince Henry was on shipbuilding and exploration techniques. This initiative played a crucial role in the Age of Discovery, as it aimed to improve maritime navigation, develop more sophisticated ships, and enhance the skills needed for long-distance ocean travel. Prince Henry, often referred to as Henry the Navigator, sought to gather the best navigators, cartographers, and shipbuilders to propel Portugal to the forefront of maritime exploration.

This emphasis on shipbuilding was vital because it allowed for the creation of vessels that were better equipped for the challenges of Atlantic exploration, such as the caravel, which was agile and could sail close to the wind. The focus on exploration techniques involved training navigators in the use of navigational instruments and understanding ocean currents, winds, and other geographic considerations.

While trade and commerce strategies and military tactics were indeed significant concerns in the broader context of Portuguese exploration and colonization, the foundational work done at the navigation school centered specifically on the technical advancements and skills necessary for successful exploration.