1482 facts for kids

The year 1482 was a time of exciting discoveries and big changes around the world. Explorers were sailing to new places, and powerful leaders were making important decisions that shaped history. Let's look at some of the most interesting things that happened in this year.

What Happened in 1482?

European Explorations and New Forts

In 1482, explorers from Portugal were very active. They were sailing along the coast of Africa, looking for new trade routes and lands.

• The Portuguese built stronger defenses for a place called Fort Elmina on the Gold Coast. This area in Africa was known for its gold. Building a fort meant they wanted to protect their trading interests there.
• They also built another fort, the Fort of Sao Jorge de Mina, close to where the River Benya meets the sea. These forts were important for trade and for protecting their ships.
• A brave Portuguese explorer named Diogo Cão became the first European to sail up the mighty Congo River. This was a big discovery, opening up new parts of Africa to European knowledge.

Empires and Leaders

Far from Europe, other important events were taking place with powerful leaders.

• In Central America, a leader named Tizoc began to rule the powerful Aztecs. The Aztecs were a large and advanced civilization known for their impressive cities and culture.
• In Eastern Europe, Ivan III, the Grand Prince of Moscow, made a very important decision. He officially ended the rule of the Mongol Khanate over Russia. This meant Russia was now truly independent and could grow into a stronger nation.

Famous Stories

Sometimes, a year becomes famous not just for real events, but also for stories set in that time.

• The year 1482 is the made-up date for the famous story Notre-Dame de Paris, also known as The Hunchback of Notre Dame. This classic book was written much later by Victor Hugo, but it helps us imagine what Paris might have been like in 1482.

More to Explore

In Spanish: 1482 para niños