Portuguese navigator names island after himself in the Indian Ocean.

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Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
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Portuguese navigator Dom Pedro Mascarenhas christened the island of Mauritius after himself during his expedition. Mascarenhas, aboard his ship, set foot on the uncharted island, marking the first known contact with the land. Impressed by its lush landscapes and tropical climate, he decided to name the island in his honor, calling it Mauritius. This naming was a significant event in the history of the island as it laid the foundation for its identity. The name 'Mauritius' stuck and became known globally, shaping the island's reputation and history. The act of naming the island after Mascarenhas also established a European presence in the region, paving the way for further exploration and colonization. Mascarenhas' decision to name the island of Mauritius after himself highlights the impact of European exploration on the cultural and geographical landscape of the Indian Ocean region. The legacy of this naming continues to resonate in the modern-day identity of Mauritius. #Mauritius #DomPedroMascarenhas #Exploration #Colonization #Identity
Primary Reference: Diego Garcia - Wikipedia
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