Why Ferdinand Magellan is Credited with the First Circumnavigation of the Earth

Antonio de Prado announced at the end of the 16th century that the explorer who initiated and laid the foundations of a significant maritime voyage could be considered the effective initiator of such an achievement, even if he did not complete it personally. This concept has been widely accepted in the context of Ferdinand Magellan's expedition, which successfully circumnavigated the Earth. Magellan is credited with this monumental feat despite the circumstances that led to his untimely death. Let's explore the key points that explain this credit.

Leadership and Initiation

Ferdinand Magellan played a crucial role in the initiation and planning of the expedition that would eventually circumnavigate the Earth. He organized the expedition, setting sail in September 1519 from Spain with the aim of finding a westward route to the Spice Islands. His leadership and vision were instrumental in overcoming the initial challenges faced by the crew. The development and organization of the voyage laid the groundwork for its eventual success.

Significant Contributions

Magellan's navigational skills and determination were paramount to the expedition's success. Among his most notable achievements was the success of the Strait of Magellan, a critical passage that connected the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This navigational feat opened up a new route for future explorations and was a significant milestone in the history of maritime exploration.

Circumstantial Context

Magellan's contribution to the expedition did not end with the achievement of the Strait of Magellan. During the expedition, he faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather, limited supplies, and hostile encounters with local tribes. Tragically, Magellan died in the Philippines in April 1521 during a conflict with the local inhabitants. Although he did not complete the journey, his crew, led by Juan Sebastián Elcano, continued the expedition.

Historical Perspective

Historically, the person who initiates a major journey or exploration often receives credit for the overall achievement, especially if their efforts were pivotal in overcoming initial challenges. Magellan's name became synonymous with the expedition due to his role as the leader and the fact that significant progress was made under his command. This factor contributed to the assigning of primary credit for the circumnavigation to Magellan.

Completion of the Voyage

While Elcano and the remaining crew completed the circumnavigation in September 1522, they did so as a continuation of Magellan's original expedition. This connection is why the voyage is often attributed to Magellan. The credit goes to him because he initiated and executed the strategy, and his leadership and contributions were fundamental to the initial success of the expedition.

In summary, Ferdinand Magellan is credited with the first circumnavigation of the Earth because he was the driving force behind the expedition, and his contributions laid the groundwork for its successful completion by his crew. His leadership and strategic decision-making played a pivotal role in the expedition's success, and even though he did not survive to see the completion of the journey, his legacy is indelibly linked to the circumnavigation of the Earth.