Ferdinand Magellan and Circumnavigation

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the analytic methods used by Torodash in his work on Magellan. The paper points out that the scarcity of literature on the historiography of Magellan presents a problem for Torodash, which he confronts through historical, textual, and meta-analysis of available information. Through these methods, the paper asserts, Torodash assesses conflicts and parallelisms regarding the circumnavigation activities and life of Magellan and, consequently, is able to confront the primary issue in his article, which is to determine Magellan historiography despite its scarcity. The paper concludes by suggesting that Toradosh's study significantly contributes to the techniques and methods that historians must have to ensure that historiographies are conducted systematically and with rigor.

From the Paper:

"The Age of Discovery that emerged in the 15th-16th centuries in Europe, led by Spain and Portugal, was marked and characterized by the prevalence of sea navigations to discover new lands or "primitive" societies. These lands and societies were also potential colonies, wherein their territories could be expanded and resources exploited for the economic benefit of European countries. Ferdinand Magellan, Portuguese-born Spanish explorer and navigator, played a significant role during this age, mainly because of contributions in establishing Spanish colonies in the islands of the Pacific. However, historiography on Magellan remains scarce despite his contributions and numerous journeys around the world. Torodas confronts this issue by discussing and analyzing related works of literature pertaining to not only the accomplishments and activities of Magellan as navigator and explorer, but also as the first individual to prove (empirically) that the earth is round, giving prestige to European navigation missions."

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