What was one main cause of the Age of Exploration? The Age of Exploration, also known as the Age of Discovery, was a period of great expansion and exploration by European explorers from the 15th to the 17th centuries. This era marked the discovery of new lands, the establishment of trade routes, and the exchange of ideas and cultures. One of the primary causes of this age was the search for new trade routes to Asia, which was driven by various economic, political, and social factors.
The pursuit of new trade routes was primarily motivated by the desire to find a direct sea route to Asia, bypassing the Ottoman Empire, which controlled the land routes. This direct sea route would reduce the cost and time of trade, and increase the profits for European merchants. The spice trade, in particular, was highly lucrative, and European countries were eager to gain access to these valuable commodities.
Economic factors played a significant role in the Age of Exploration. The discovery of new trade routes would open up new markets and opportunities for trade, leading to increased wealth and power for the European nations involved. The competition between European powers, such as Spain, Portugal, England, and France, to control these new trade routes and territories was fierce, leading to the establishment of colonies and the expansion of empires.
Political and social factors also contributed to the Age of Exploration. The Catholic Church, for example, supported the exploration of new lands as a means to spread Christianity and convert indigenous populations. The idea of discovering new lands and peoples was seen as a way to glorify God and prove the superiority of European civilization. Additionally, the rise of strong monarchies in Europe provided the necessary political and financial support for exploration missions.
The Age of Exploration was also driven by technological advancements. The development of new navigation tools, such as the astrolabe and the compass, allowed explorers to venture further into unknown territories. The construction of larger and more advanced ships, such as the caravel, made long-distance sea voyages more feasible.
In conclusion, the search for new trade routes to Asia was one of the main causes of the Age of Exploration. This pursuit was driven by economic, political, and social factors, as well as technological advancements. The Age of Exploration led to significant changes in the world, shaping the course of history and laying the foundation for the modern globalized world.
