The New World Way
For Those with a Thirst for Adventure!
Let's split it!
By Ebelechiyem Okafor
In order to preserve their claim, Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand have sent a plea to Pope Alexander the VI. In response, the Pope has instituted a revolutionary decree- The Treaty of Tordesillas. This treaty between Spain and Portugal divides the world into two regions. Portugal owns the east, Spain the west. The boundaries are marked by the Line of Demarcation.
The Line of Demarcation serves as a great warning to all nations that they must build their empires quickly, because nations are already laying their claims. It also shows that India and Asia will soon have large Portuguese influences, as the Americas will have a large Spanish influence. However, there is question to how seriously countries will take this decree, especially Protestant ones such as The Netherlands or England.
Adventure is Out There!
Interviews: How the Past and the Present affect the Future
The Defiant King Affonso I of Kongo
By Ebelechiyem Okafor
Ebele(E): King Affonso, I would like to thank you for speaking with us today.
King Affonso: It is not a problem. I would enjoy this opportunity to speak about my ideals and views.
E: Views that, in many Europeans eyes, are controversial.
King Affonso: The whole idea of myself, an educated black king, is controversial to them. What they think does not affect my opinions. I only answer to God.
E: Yes, we are all aware that you are a converted Catholic. King Affonso, for my first question, could you explain your upbringing? I am sure the world would want some background of your past.
King Affonso: Very well. I am not ashamed of my past at all. God has risen me up and brought me to my position. As a young man, I was tutored by Portuguese missionaries. Through this I saw the light of God and became a Christian. I became a king in 1505.
E: King Affonso, why are you so against colonization and trade with Europe?
King Affonso: I am not against trade and relations with Europe. I actually believe that it is essential for us to communicate. My kingdom, subjects, and I could gain much knowledge from the ways of Europe.
E: Then why have you sent King John III of Portugal a letter commanding him to stop all trade and contact between the African natives and the Portuguese?
King Affonso: I have done no such thing. My actions have clearly been exaggerated . I do not appreciated the Portuguese selling a plethora of ware on the docks. Our vassals who were once loyal to us are now disrespectful. It was easier to keep them under our jurisdiction when we had control on materials and goods they needed, but now that the Portuguese sell so much, many of them see no point in obeying us. I do not wish to completely end trade, but I see little need to importing in more than educators, missionaries, and ingredients for the holy sacrament.
E: I understand your point now. Would you care to explain your view on the slave trade?
King Affonso: By taking my subjects, my people, my kingdom is being destroyed. It is not right to take the sons of our noblemen and vassals to be sold into lives of labor. Our land is being depopulated. My people have souls and I write to the King beseeching him to stop it before it is too late.
E: If only King John would listen. Thank you for sharing your thoughts King Affonso. I wish you well.
King Affonso: And you as well.
Obituaries
The Great and Beloved Prince Henry the Navigator
By Ebelechiyem Okafor
Prince Henry was a visionary. He saw great promise in exploring Africa. The Prince believed that we could convert the poor heathens from their tribal religions. He also knew many riches were located there.
Perhaps Henry's greatest feat however, was his determination to find an easier trade route to Asia. He gathered the greatest scientists and cartographers and with expert Portuguese knowledge, new ships and maps were created. While he is not alive to see it be accomplished, he shall live on. His legacy has blessed the world.
Vasco de Gama c.1460 - 1524
By Hana Tabit
Ferdinand Magellan
By Loredana Mello
Ferdinand Magellan was born to a noble Portuguese family. In 1519 he set out with 5 ships from Spain, determined to find a way to the pacific. He bravely sailed through storms and extreme heat, and eventually made it to the South American coast. He explored each and every bay, hoping that there would be one that would lead to the Pacific Ocean. Finally, in November 1520, he found what would become known as the Strait of Magellan. He courageously fought harsh winds, extreme storms, and rushing tides. His courage paid off, though. Once they finally made it through, they emerged into the South Sea, which he himself named the Pacific, which comes from the latin word for peaceful. His crew now wanted to return to Spain, but he wanted to continue on to the East Indies. Eventually they reached the Philippines, where Magellan was killed in a war between the locals. Eighteen survivors of the crew have returned and are the first people to circumnavigate, to sail all the way around the world. Antonio Pigafetta says "I believe of a certainty that no one will ever again make such a voyage." His family says that they don't know if they will ever again meet a man with more courage, bravery, and kindness as Magellan, and hope he will be looked to as a model for explorers of the future.
Crossword puzzle
Word Bank: line of demarcation, circumnavigate, moluccas, sovereign, boers, outpost, sepoy, goa, quing dynasty, circumnavigate, plantation, monopoly, cartographer, manchus, missionary.
Hint: Answers composed of more than one word have spaces in between the words. For example: "Line of Demarcation" would enter the puzzle with spaces included.
TRAVEL NEWS
Travel to the Philippines!
By Hana Tabit
Come visit the exotic Asian Philippine islands recently conquered by Spain! See the missionaries where Catholic priests have been converting Filipinos to the holy religion.
Here in the Philippines, progress is always backed by momentum. Only 50 years after Ferdinand Magellan claimed the territory for Spain, the islands had been colonized. Now they service as a well known trading post with Mexico, Peru, and America. The islands are bordered by crystal blue water that is excellent for swimming, and they have quite a diverse landscape that promises adventure for all those who seek after it.
RESERVATIONS FOR YOUR TRIP CAN BE MADE BY SENDING A POST-MARKED LETTER TO THIS ADDRESS:
179 Magellan Boulevard, Barcelona, Spain.
TECHNOLOGY
Old tools, new improvements
By Loredana Mello
Older maps have pictured Europe quite accurately, but what about the rest of what's out there? For a long time, everyone has seen it as just one big piece of land. But there's more! New discoveries have led to newer, more accurate maps that show what the Earth and all of its continents really look like. Recently, geographer Abraham Ortelius has produced a map that accurately shows all the shapes of the continents and their locations! Another wonderful new improvement is the improvement of the ships these sailors and explorers have been using. They now use the caravel. The caravel is lighter than the old heavy European ships, and can travel much farther. It is also more easily maneuvered and can be taken into places that have not been explored. It is a very exciting time for exploration, and we are all looking forward to what will be discovered next!
BUSINESS
The Slave Trade Continues
By Hana Tabit
Help Wanted
Gold, God, and Glory!
Needed: Crew members for new voyage!
Positions Needed: Cook, pages, sailors, cleaners, etc.
Advertisements
New import of spices!
On the Next Issue: What is mercantilism?
Up and coming Explorers
What is the best compass to use?: The Hippest New Ships and Tools (for sailing of course!)
Exploration stops you have to make!
Europe's Cutest King!
Credits to:
Designer: Ebelechiyem Okafor
Photographer: Hana Tabit