How did Prince Henry and the Portuguese improve sailing?

Answer 1

Prince Henry was a patron of exploration for Portugal during the Age of Discovery. He never actually explored himself. Rather, he trained seamen and perfected navigational techniques for later explorers. I believe he was born in the 1390's and died in 1460 or thereabouts. In terms of how long did he sail, he never actually sailed for Portugal. He sponsored other explorers starting in 1420, when one of his explorers ventured into Sub Saharan Africa, and did so until his death in 1460. He invented the caravel, which was a vessel that could sail long distances much easier, as well as tack against the wind. But to the best of my knowledge he never actually sailed for Portugal and discovered anything of importance. He trained and financed many explorers who did, however.