1. The Europeans
U.S. History

2. A Crash Course in European History
1000 B.C B.C- Ancient Greece
500 B.C- 500 A.D.- Roman Republic and Empire
500 A.D A.D.- Dark Ages, Crusades, Bubonic Plague.
1400 A.D.- Renaissance and Exploration

3. The Crusades ( A.D.)
During the Crusades, Europeans came in contact with new cultures and different lifestyles.
This led to a desire for new products such as spices, silk, and gem stones.
As a result, European traders explored beyond their boundaries into Asia, seeking new routes and trade partners.

4. The Renaissance (1400 A.D.) Renaissance means rebirth.
Europe experienced a rebirth of the arts and sciences, which were discouraged during the Dark Ages.
This led to more exploration, which led to more wealth, which led to more exploration…

5. Early Explorations
From the Renaissance came new tools (compass, quadrant, astrolabe) that made sailing more accurate.
Additionally, stronger ships were being built that could travel longer distances.
The Portuguese and Spanish were the first to explore the Atlantic.
These explorations took the Europeans to the coast of Africa in search of ivory, gold, and slaves.