Motives for European Expansion 15th and 16th century
Europeans had many reasons to risk their live in a really long voyage across the Atlantic Ocean. Many new technological advancements such as the cannons, new ships, magnetic compass and the astrolabe- helped make the trip something possible. Eventually Captains didn't have the money to afford this. So they had to appeal to kings to sponsor their trip. To get the Monarch's sponsorship of the trip Captains had to somehow appeal to him the idea is worth while. So they had to come up with motives. The ottomans had taken part of practically all the border of East Europe with Asia impeding trade. This meant they had to find an alternative trade route. What they tried then is to go wes
This wasn't the most important reason for the majority. It brought you money and power Spain had under his control more land than any other country except possibly Portugal. There major profits from trading with India were spices. The Dutch also took part in some expeditions; and created the Dutch East Indian Company which controlled big part of European's economy. Money, material wealth and Trade were the key. Europeans wanted to spread religion. Religion was a romantic way, a romantic reason to go. But the massive richness you gained by stealing from other civilisations was of great value for a country's economy. Especially educated people were interested about this. Historians say this comes from the Renaissance curiosity to discover the world, geography, new people and Customs. The most important reason for exploration was material profit, basically money and wealth. As the quotations of many explorers say when they reached land all refered to the winning of money and richness and a little bit of serfdom to the king and their god. Then Spain would go in search of 2 bigger countries with more wealth. Portugal took the lead in the Spice Trade with Prince Henry as a massive sponsor of voyages. Many wanted to increase their fortunes (especially Spaniards).
Common topics in this essay:
Customs Especially,
Eventually Captains,
Europe Asia,
Countries Portugal,
European Expansion,
Christopher Columbus,
Indian Company,
Prince Henry,
America Spices,
Atlantic Ocean,
spread religion,
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