The Age of Exploration
Why did Europeans begin to explore the world? Europeans wanted new trade routes to Asia. Many Europeans wanted to spread Christianity. Technological advancements allowed Europeans to explore. Some European nations had strong governments. New maps were made and old maps were discovered.
Why did Europeans want to open new trade routes in Asia? In the 1400s, it became difficult to get goods from Asia. Anyone who could find a cheap way to get Asian goods would make a lot of money.
Trade with Asia
How did new technology help people explore? The astrolabe- The compass- Triangular sails- New rudders-
Why did explorers sail for strong nations? Exploration was expensive. Kings and queens used tax money to make their governments stronger.
How did maps encourage exploration? Europeans began to study geography.
What nations could afford to explore? Portugal Spain England France The Netherlands
How did Vasco da Gama develop a new route to Asia?
Vasco da Gama
Who was Christopher Columbus?
Christopher Columbus
Christopher Columbus What was Columbus searching for? Why did he want to find a new route to Asia? Where did Columbus really go? Do you think it was good or bad that Columbus reached the Americas?
What is significant about Ferdinand Magellan? Magellan was the first person to circumnavigate the planet.
Ferdinand Magellan
Turn to page 489. Describe Samuel Morison’s opinion of Columbus. What did Bartolome de Las Casas say about the impact of Spaniards on the Indians? What do you think is Suzan Harjo’s opinion of Columbus? Why did Alphonse Lamartine praise Columbus? Do you think we should celebrate Columbus Day?