Bartolomeu Dias was a Portuguese explorer known for being the first European to sail around the southern tip of Africa, the Cape of Good Hope, in 1488. This monumental voyage opened up the sea route to Asia via the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, which was pivotal for global trade and the Age of Exploration.

Dias' expedition demonstrated that it was possible to reach the Indian Ocean from the Atlantic, thereby allowing future explorers like Vasco da Gama to find a direct sea route to India. This achievement significantly boosted Portuguese influence in global trade and exploration.

Dias' voyage had profound implications for global navigation and commerce, leading to increased exploration, the establishment of trade routes, and the eventual colonization of various regions. His pioneering journey marked a significant milestone in the Age of Exploration, contributing to the interconnected world we know today.