Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2027 exam
Verified for the 2027 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
European commercial enterprises granted exclusive trading rights by their governments to conduct trade in specific regions, particularly in Asia and the Atlantic world.
AP course connection
Topic 4.5: 4.5 Maritime Empires Maintained and Developed