Exploring the rise of maritime empires during the late Middle Ages, this overview discusses European powers like Portugal, Spain, and England, who used advanced maritime technology to establish colonies and trade networks globally. It delves into the economic philosophy of mercantilism that fueled their expansion, the role of joint-stock companies in financing these ventures, and the lasting consequences on world trade and geopolitics.
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Empires throughout history expanded their influence through territorial conquests, such as the Roman Empire and the Aztec and Inca civilizations
Shipbuilding and Navigation
The development of advanced maritime technology in Europe during the late Middle Ages allowed for the establishment of maritime empires
Maritime Knowledge
The increase in maritime knowledge also played a crucial role in the expansion of maritime empires
The economic philosophy of mercantilism drove European nations to compete for wealth and influence through the establishment of overseas colonies and trade networks
Maritime empires were distinguished by their ability to project power across oceans and maintain territories far from their European origins
European powers established a network of colonies and trading posts across continents, laying claim to lands in the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Oceania
Maps from the period, often color-coded, illustrate the extensive scope of these empires and their impact on world geography
The pursuit of wealth and resources through mercantilism was a major motivation for the expansion of maritime empires
Financing and Management
Joint-stock companies, such as the British East India Company, were instrumental in financing and managing overseas ventures
Shared Costs and Risks
These companies allowed investors to share the costs and risks of overseas ventures
Trade and colonization were often enforced by military might to ensure access to profitable markets and strategically located outposts
The establishment of extensive trade networks by maritime empires shifted the center of economic power to Europe
The legacy of maritime empires persisted well into the 19th century, with European nations continuing to exert influence over global affairs
The pursuit of wealth and resources through maritime empires often resulted in the exploitation of resources and forced labor systems, such as the Atlantic Slave Trade
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Key Empires Known for Territorial Conquests
Roman, Mongol, Aztec, Inca - expanded through land conquests.
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Significance of Late Middle Ages in Maritime Expansion
Advanced maritime tech in Europe led to age of maritime empires.
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European Nations' Global Influence 15th-18th Century
Portugal, Spain, France, England, Netherlands established colonies, trade networks via naval power.
