Scurvy's Conquest and Sailors' Health

Sailors were often afflicted with scurvy during the early days of circumnavigational conquests and discovery. This disease seriously crippled the capabilities of the crews of famous navigators such as Ferdinand Magellan and Christopher Columbus. Based on the experiences of these people, Captain James Cook developed preventive health measures during his voyages from 1768 to 1780. This breakthrough eventually led to a new era of overseas colonization, trade and exploration.