The Age of Discovery, also known as the Age of Exploration, was a period in European history from the early 15th century to the early 17th century. This era marked the expansion of European influence through exploration, trade, and colonization, leading to significant global interactions.
Historical Context
- Beginnings: The Age of Discovery began with the voyages of Prince Henry the Navigator of Portugal in the early 15th century. His establishment of a navigation school at Sagres encouraged exploration along the west coast of Africa.
- Motivations: The primary motivations were to find new trade routes to Asia to bypass the monopoly held by the Ottoman Empire, spread Christianity, and gain wealth through trade and colonization.
Key Explorers and Their Discoveries
Technological Innovations
Significant advancements in navigation and shipbuilding played a crucial role:
- The Caravel: A ship design that allowed for greater maneuverability and was well-suited for exploration.
- Navigational Tools: The astrolabe, compass, and later the sextant improved navigation accuracy.
Impact
- Economic Impact: The discovery of new trade routes led to a significant increase in trade, particularly in spices, gold, and other commodities, which enriched European economies.
- Cultural Exchange: The period facilitated the Columbian Exchange, where plants, animals, cultures, and diseases were exchanged between the Old and New Worlds.
- Colonization: European powers established colonies, leading to the exploitation and often the displacement of indigenous populations.
End of the Age
The Age of Discovery began to wane as European exploration and colonization became more established, with the focus shifting to the Age of Colonialism where the emphasis was on consolidating and managing colonial empires.
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