Final answer:
The development of the caravel, which could sail against the wind, was a major factor in Portugal's important role in the Age of Exploration, allowing for prolonged and adaptable sea voyages irrespective of weather conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Importance of Advanced Sailing Ships in Portugal to the Age of Exploration
The development of advanced sailing ships in Portugal was indispensable to the Age of Exploration. The Portuguese mastery of the open sea owes credit to technological innovations like the compass, astrolabe, and most importantly, the caravel. This ship, with its distinctive triangular sails mixed with a square rig, enabled it to sail against the wind. Hence, the correct answer to the student's question is (b) The ships could sail against the wind, allowing travel even when the weather was poor.
The agility and design of the caravel allowed for more extensive and flexible navigation routes. Exploration was no longer at the mercy of favorable winds, which was game-changing for the Portuguese, who, under Prince Henry the Navigator's sponsorship, explored the coast of Africa and established crucial trade posts. Further advancements by Portugal included the establishment of trading ports in India and the conquest of Malacca in the Spice Islands. These strategic moves marked the beginning of Portugal's robust sea empire.
Portugal's pioneering role in the Age of Discovery laid the foundations for others like Spain, England, and France to join in global exploration. Nonetheless, these nations first dealt with internal challenges such as the Protestant Reformation before fully committing to overseas expansion. Portugal's advancements, including the caravel, set the stage for a new global maritime era.