Here's why this is so important:
* Breaking the psychological barrier: Cape Bojador, located on the Atlantic coast of Africa, was considered the "end of the world" by Europeans for centuries. It was feared for its treacherous currents, storms, and mythical dangers. Sailing beyond it was thought impossible, and for many, it symbolized the edge of the known world.
* Opening up new possibilities: Eanes' successful voyage in 1434 shattered this myth. It demonstrated that sailing south along the African coast was feasible, opening up the potential for further exploration and trade routes.
* Triggering a wave of exploration: Eanes' achievement sparked a new era of Portuguese exploration. It inspired subsequent voyages further down the African coast, eventually leading to the discovery of the Cape of Good Hope and the establishment of the Portuguese trading empire.
In essence, Gil Eanes' courageous voyage served as a pivotal turning point in Portuguese maritime history. It helped to break down mental and physical barriers, paving the way for future exploration and ultimately contributing to Portugal's rise as a global power.