The Age of Exploration, spanning the 15th to 17th centuries, was a time of European maritime expeditions that reshaped the world. Pioneers like Prince Henry, Dias, da Gama, and Columbus expanded horizons, leading to the discovery of new lands and sea routes. This era saw the rise of global trade, colonization, and cultural exchanges, but also the exploitation and suffering of indigenous populations. The legacy of this period continues to influence modern international relations and economics.
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Prince Henry the Navigator led expeditions along the West African coast to find alternative routes to Asia
Bartolomeu Dias
Dias's successful rounding of the Cape of Good Hope opened the way for maritime passage to Asia
Vasco da Gama
Da Gama's voyage to India established a sea route that enhanced Portugal's position as a dominant seafaring nation
Christopher Columbus
Columbus's expeditions resulted in the European discovery of the Americas, leading to conflicts over territorial claims
The encounters between Europeans and indigenous peoples often resulted in exploitation, subjugation, and cultural erosion
The Pope's Inter caetera and the Treaty of Tordesillas divided newly discovered lands between Spain and Portugal, shaping the colonization and political dynamics of the Americas
Conquistadors
Conquistadors like Cortés and Pizarro led conquests that caused widespread destruction and loss of life among indigenous populations
Disease and Forced Labor
The introduction of diseases and the establishment of the transatlantic slave trade were among the dire consequences of European colonialism
European powers formed trading companies to exploit resources and markets, leading to the influx of wealth but also causing suffering in colonized regions
The Age of Exploration forged connections between continents through commerce and colonization, leading to cultural exchanges
The Age of Exploration reshaped global interactions and laid the foundations for the modern international system
The legacy of the Age of Exploration is a complex interweaving of remarkable achievements and profound tragedies, highlighting the enduring effects of European expansion on world history
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Key figure in developing navigation techniques during the Age of Exploration
Prince Henry the Navigator, sponsored expeditions, improved navigational methods.
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Primary motivation for European maritime exploration
Seeking routes to Asia's markets, avoiding Middle Eastern/Ottoman-controlled land routes.
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Significant maritime innovation in the Age of Exploration
The caravel, a new ship design enabling long voyages and sailing against the wind.
