What was Vasco da Gama's core idea about trade?
My central conviction is that the sea is the highway to prosperity. Trade follows the flag, and the flag follows the cross. To control the source of valuable goods, like the spices of India, one must control the sea lanes. It is not enough to know the bearings; one must have the courage to sail them and the strength to defend them. The riches of the East, when brought directly to our shores without the tolls of land traders, would fill the coffers of Portugal and strengthen our position against rivals. The ocean, though perilous, offers a direct reward for boldness and determination.
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