1. Reason for Exploration

2. Reasons for Exploration Imagine: There is inhabitable life on Mars and the technology exists get you there. You are seriously contemplating an expedition to this un-charted planet. The risks are great but the pay-offs could be extraordinary! THINK: 1.Why would you consider going? 2.What could you find once you get there? 3.What could do with your life once there? 4.What could you bring with you? (remember, you can bring “things” that are real things (i.e. abstract items)) 5.What might motivate your COMPETITORS to go there? What about competing NATIONS?

3. Reasons for Exploration Geographic Reasons The Ottoman Empire had blocked the overland (by land) route to Asia meaning… In order to get to Asia for their precious spices, porcelain, etc., Europeans must contend with the assertive Ottomans Europeans started looking for other ways (by sea??) to get to India and Asia

5. Reasons for Exploration Political Reasons: Kings and monarchs in Europe wanted more power –Wealth = power –Land = power

6. Reasons for Exploration Commercial Reasons Merchants wanted to get rich –In return, they paid to equip the voyages and make money off the “fruits” of the voyage –They could sell spices, silk, or gold for very high prices if the ships returned safely from the voyage

7. Reasons for Exploration Technological Reasons Better technology facilitated (allowed for) the voyages to take place in the first place –Caravels –Improved maps –Navigational tools Astrolabe –Originally from the Islamic world Magnetic compass –Came earlier to Europe from China over the _____________ _______________?

8. Reasons for Exploration Religious Reasons: Church leaders want to spread their religion to “new” lands They sought to convert people of “new” lands to Christianity Remember our last unit? –After the Reformation, more competition to convert people to Catholicism v. Protestantism

9. REMEMBER! The Three G’s GodGod- Convert the native people to Christianity –Political, social, or economic reason? GoldGold-Wealth of all kind –Political, social, or economic reason? GloryGlory-More land meant glory for their kingdoms –Political, social or economic reason?