Estêvão da Gama (15th century)

Estevão da Gama (* 1430, † July 1497 ) was a wealthy Portuguese nobleman of the 15th century. He was the father of the explorer Vasco da Gama.

Estevão da Gama was Alcaide Mor (Governor ) of Sines and Silves, Officer of King Alfonso V of Portugal, Commander of Cercal, member of the court of Prince Ferdinand, Duke of Guarda, and a member of the Knights of Santiago.

His wife, Isabel Sodré was of English origin, with links to the court of Prince Diogo, Duke of Viseu, son of king Edward I of Portugal, and Grand Master of the military Order of Christ. The couple had two sons with the name Paulo and Vasco.

Estevão da Gama was chosen for an expedition to explore the sea routes to Asia and to outflank the Arabs, who had a monopoly on trade with India and other Asian nations. Since he died in July 1497 the command of the ships his son Vasco was given. It is also believed that the Great Commission was the brother of Vasco, Paulo offered, but he returned without success.

A son of Vasco da Gama, Estêvão da Gama, was named after his grandfather and also was Governor of Portuguese India ( 1540-1542 ).

• Seafarer
• Governor
• Portuguese history
• Portuguese
• Born in the 15th century
• Died in 1497
• Man
• Vasco da Gama