History - 21. Columbus, Vasco da Gama, and Zheng He

Who was the first major figure of the 15th century when it comes to ocean-going voyages?

• Christopher Columbus

• Marco Polo

• Zheng He

• Vasco da Gama

Which Chinese admiral led an armada of over 300 ships with a crew of over 27,000 during the 15th century?

• Christopher Columbus

• Amerigo Vespucci

• Vasco da Gama

• Zheng He

What was the primary motivation behind Zheng He's voyages in the Indian Ocean?

• To find new lands for colonization

• To showcase China's power and wealth

• To spread Christianity

• To establish trade routes with Europe

Which European explorer landed at Calicut in India in 1498, seeking gold and Christians?

• Vasco da Gama

• Zheng He

• Amerigo Vespucci

• Christopher Columbus

What strategy did the Portuguese use to control trade in the Indian Ocean?

• Building alliances with local rulers

• Forcing merchants to purchase permits

• Creating a trading post empire

• Establishing colonies

What was the main reason for the decline of Zheng He's voyages in the Indian Ocean?

• Natural disasters at sea

• Conflict with other empires

• Loss of navigation technology

• Lack of interest from Chinese rulers

Which European power became interested in exploring a route to the Indies after observing Portuguese success in the Indian Ocean?

• France

• England

• Spain

• Italy

What did Columbus primarily promise to Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain in order to secure funding for his expedition?

• Military support against enemies

• Spices and gold

• Conversion of natives to Christianity

• New lands for colonization

What was the lasting impact of Columbus's voyages on the people he encountered in the Americas?

• Cultural exchange

• Economic prosperity

• Peaceful coexistence

• Disease and exploitation

Which European power became fantastically wealthy within two generations of Columbus's voyages?

• Portugal

• France

• England

• Spain