European Expansion 1400 - 1550

Limited trade before exploration Iberian Kingdoms Limited trade before exploration

Motives for Exploration The Iberian kingdoms sponsored voyages for the following reasons: Leaders The city states of Italy had no incentive to explore Atlantic trade routes because they had a monopoly on access to Asian goods. revival trade Spread Christianity struggle with Islam The Iberian kingdoms had a history of warfare with the Muslims, but they had no share of Mediterranean Sea trade. curiosity They had advanced shipbuilding and cannon technology and were open to new geographical knowledge and had exceptional leaders. alliances between rulers and merchants

Portuguese technology: CARAVEL is a small, highly maneuverable sailing ship