Influence to Magellan's Personal Contribution

With sheer trust in himself that he could find the sea route from Spain to the Spice Islands going from Atlantic through South America, Ferdinand Magellan had proved that he was correct in his belief. By successfully leading his fleet in finding the strait of water (later named Strait of Magellan) connecting the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean, Magellan had led Europe into the Age of Reason and Age of Exploration. His determination in not giving up hope, but consistent trials and error until the strait was found contributed to the notion of how reason could surpass superstition and myths. 

With the return of Victoria, the last vessel remained in Magellan’s fleet and loaded with cloves, Magellan brought Europe from medieval belief that the world was flat, to the modern age knowing now that the world was round. His voyage was the first longest ocean journey and the first to go around the world. His records and maps made from his journey paved the courses for later Spanish explorers who sailed and colonized North and South America. This was a leader with vision, seeing what others did not see or refuse to see. His courage in undertaking the unknown waters and fighting whoever opposed him during the journey defied ancient practices of accepting the unknown with blind faith.

As a Portuguese who sailed for the Spanish King, and due to the success of his journey bringing back the cloves, Magellan helped make Spain win the race against the Portuguese in the exploration of new lands. There were more Spanish explorers than Portuguese in the 16th century conquering lands in South America and North America. All these were results of Magellan’s successful journey.