October 06, 2015

Europe Explores the "New World"

• By the 15th century, Europeans were aware of places as distant as Africa, India and China

• They had no idea of the existence of the Americas

• By 1650, most of the Atlantic coastline of the Americas would be under control of European powers

October 06, 2015

October 06, 2015

Motivations for European Exploration

1. Renaissance --> curiosity about other lands and peoples

2. Monarchs seeking new sources of revenue

3. Technological advances

4. Fame and fortune

October 06, 2015

October 06, 2015

October 06, 2015

October 06, 2015

God Gold Glory

Christians believed it was their mission to spread their religion beyond Europe

Convert the native population

Riches, increase in trade, silks, spices, gold, silver

Land and resources to increase countries' wealth and power

Competition, strength, exploration, prestige, importance, expansion

Discover new lands = famous

If you were a 15th century European explorer, which motive would be most relevant to you? How would this

benefit you and your country?