Unknown Seas: How Vasco Da Gama Opened the East

By: Ronald Watkins

Narrated by: Robert Anthony Deyes

In the 15th century, the world beyond Europe began to emerge from myth and legend, and it was the Portuguese who led the way. They founded an empire that stretched from China to Brazil, and the peak of their achievement was Vasco da Gama's discovery of a sea route to India. Still today, landmarks, coastlines and currents around the world bear Portuguese names, and the oceans of the world are one vast watery grave for Portuguese seamen. For those who sailed beyond the known world life was harsh beyond measure. Yet the discoverers were not lured only by gold, precious stones and spices -- they were driven to colonise, to enslave, to bring their religion to the unconverted. Reconstructing journeys from contemporary logs and papers, this absorbing and wonderfully vivid account brings to life the captains driving their small ships, the ordinary seamen and the far-off, not always friendly traders they met.

©2003 Ronald J. Watkins (P)2014 Ronald J. Watkins

Now and Then - No Big Difference

Where does Unknown Seas: How Vasco Da Gama Opened the East rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Very high.

What did you like best about this story?

I liked the realistic approach that author presents. The analysis of a social status of an individual is very accurate, for example the social stats of Vasco De Gama. Then, the strong and educated royal character who acts behind the scenes is always important in one kingdom.
Geopolitical status of Africa, Middle East and India are very similar nowadays.

Which character – as performed by Robert Anthony Deyes – was your favorite?

The way Robert reads the book is so interesting. His voice puts me immediately into the mythical world of tails and explorations. He is engaged into the happenings of the book, by his voice he colors the right from wrong, tells us what is interesting and what not.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes!

Good content but mediocre recording

Whilst the content of this book is good the recording sounds like it was done in the 80's. Nevertheless it is understandable and not too distracting.

Spectacular Narrative of a great discovery

Excellent book and reading performance! Awesome story of a great hero Vasco da Gama!! I’d Recommend it.

Insightful

It covers a period of history that is not given much or any attention by the mainstream media. I read every book I can get my hands on about this period in time. This is one of the best I have come across.