Age of Exploration: Key Concepts

The Age of Exploration was a historical period from the early 15th to the 17th century, marked by European exploration and navigation to discover new trade routes, territories, and resources. Initiated by Prince Henry the Navigator, this era saw significant advancements in maritime technology, cartography, and navigation. Christopher Columbus's discovery of the Caribbean islands led to intense exploration and colonization by European powers, resulting in cultural exchanges and technological progress. The period concluded in the 17th century as focus shifted to establishing colonies and European powers faced increased competition.

What was the primary goal of Europeans during the Age of Exploration?

• To establish new religions

• To discover new trade routes and resources

• To create new forms of government

• To develop new languages

Who is credited with initiating the Age of Exploration?

• Christopher Columbus

• Ferdinand Magellan

• Vasco da Gama

• Prince Henry the Navigator

Which explorer is known for discovering the Caribbean islands?

• Marco Polo

• Christopher Columbus

• John Cabot

• Amerigo Vespucci

Which European power colonized much of Central and South America?

• The Portuguese

• The Spanish

• The English

• The Dutch

What new crops did Europeans introduce to the Americas?

• Corn and chocolate

• Potatoes and tomatoes

• Rice and wheat

• Coffee and tea

What was the caravel, developed by the Portuguese?

• A type of map

• A new trade route

• A ship with triangular sails

• A navigation tool

Who was a famous cartographer during the Age of Exploration?

• James Cook

• Ptolemy

• Ferdinand Magellan

• Gerardus Mercator

Which tool was developed for celestial navigation during the Age of Exploration?

• The astrolabe

• The compass

• The telescope

• The sextant

What marked the end of the Age of Exploration?

• The invention of the steam engine

• The shift to colonization and conflicts

• The establishment of the United Nations

• The discovery of Australia

What was a significant result of increased competition between European powers?

• The discovery of Antarctica

• Conflicts and wars

• The start of the Industrial Revolution

• The formation of the European Union