jan 1, 1427 - Os Açores 1427
Description:
In 1427, Diogo de Silves led an expedition that reached Santa Maria and São Miguel in the Azores, nearly a decade after Madeira's discovery. The remaining islands were discovered shortly afterward. Colonization began in 1439 under Infante D. Henrique, who appointed Gonçalo Velho as captain-grantee of Santa Maria. Portuguese settlers, along with some Flemish immigrants, populated the islands. The Azores' favorable climate and fertile soil supported livestock farming, cereal production—particularly wheat—and dye plants, which became valuable commodities in Portugal and Europe, contributing to the region's economic development.
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