Hanno the Great was a Carthaginian explorer and navigator who lived around the 5th century BCE. He is best known for his voyage along the west coast of Africa, which he documented in a text called the "Periplus of Hanno." This journey aimed to establish trade routes and explore new territories, showcasing the maritime capabilities of Carthage. Hanno's expedition included encounters with various peoples and wildlife, and he is often credited with being one of the earliest European explorers of the African coast. His accounts provide valuable insights into the geography and cultures of the regions he visited, contributing to our understanding of ancient Carthaginian exploration.