The Portuguese were among the first Europeans to explore the
seas beyond Europe. Henry the Navigator urged his father, King John I, to
conquer the port of Ceuta in Northern Africa. He also sponsored the development
of the Caravel, a sailing ship that is lighter and faster than most ships at
that time. Use of caravels enabled sailors to travel further and with more
provisions, and the light draft enabled Portuguese sailors to explore shallow
rivers and waters. He also sponsored explorations to Madeira, Azores, and West
Coast of Africa.
The policy that government should interfere as little as possible, and have free businesses
