Motives for European Exploration and Colonization

Front

What major changes occurred in Europe during the 1400s and 1500s?

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Nation-states replaced feudal states, the Renaissance focused on the individual and secular, the Reformation caused disputes between Catholics and Protestants, trade increased, and capitalism changed economic systems.

Front

What was the economic system transition in Europe during the early 1400s?

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Transitioned to an economic system based on commerce, encouraging city growth, a middle class, and interest in more trade and direct trade routes.

Front

What is mercantilism?

Back

The regulation of a nation's economy to increase wealth, measured by gold and silver accumulation, with colonial economies controlled to benefit the mother country.

Front

What technological advancements supported European exploration?

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New technologies in navigation and shipbuilding allowed for longer sea voyages.

Front

Why did Europeans search for a direct all-water route to Asia?

Back

To obtain highly desirable goods directly from Asia.

Front

How did European rivalries extend to the Americas?

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Economic, religious, and political rivalries among nations extended to the Americas, often enlisting Native Americans in conflicts.

Front

What was the European mission regarding religion in the Americas?

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To convert non-Christians to Catholicism and other Christian religions, with Protestant and Catholic nations competing for conversions.

Front

Which countries sent explorers and settlers to the Americas?

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Portugal, Spain, France, the Netherlands, and England.

Front

What was the impact of European exploration on Native Americans?

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Significant global changes in ways of life and balance of power, with Native Americans suffering the most, permanently and catastrophically.

Front

What were the motives of the Portuguese in the Americas?

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Sought wealth and power through gold, silver, and resources, while converting Native Americans to Christianity.