key term - External Expansion

Definition

External expansion refers to the process through which a state or empire extends its influence, territory, and resources beyond its original borders. This expansion was greatly facilitated by technological innovations during the period from 1450 to 1750, as new advancements in navigation, shipbuilding, and military technology allowed for increased exploration, conquest, and trade on a global scale.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Technological innovations like the astrolabe and improved ship designs made long sea voyages safer and more efficient, fueling external expansion.
2. The Age of Exploration saw European powers like Spain, Portugal, and later England and France establish overseas empires that drastically changed global trade patterns.
3. European nations competed fiercely for colonies in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, leading to the establishment of trade networks that connected distant regions.
4. External expansion often involved military conquest but also included alliances with local rulers and trade partnerships, showcasing various methods of influence.
5. The impact of external expansion was profound, resulting in cultural exchanges, the spread of Christianity, and significant demographic changes in colonized regions.

Review Questions

• How did technological innovations contribute to external expansion during this period?
  • Technological innovations played a critical role in external expansion by improving navigation and shipbuilding. Tools like the astrolabe allowed sailors to determine their latitude accurately, while advancements in ship design enabled longer voyages. These improvements made it feasible for European powers to explore uncharted territories, establish trade routes, and ultimately expand their influence across continents.
• Evaluate the impact of external expansion on global trade networks during 1450 to 1750.
  • External expansion significantly transformed global trade networks by connecting Europe with Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The establishment of colonies led to the creation of new trade routes that facilitated the exchange of goods such as sugar, tobacco, and spices. This increase in trade not only enriched European economies but also resulted in profound changes in local economies and cultures in colonized areas.
• Discuss how external expansion influenced cultural exchanges between Europe and newly encountered regions.
  • External expansion led to extensive cultural exchanges that reshaped societies both in Europe and in newly encountered regions. As Europeans established colonies, they brought their languages, religions, and customs while also adopting aspects of local cultures. This interaction led to the spread of Christianity in various parts of the world but also resulted in significant resistance from indigenous populations. The blending of cultures created a complex legacy that continues to influence global interactions today.

Related terms

Maritime Technology:

Innovations in ship design and navigation techniques that improved the ability of states to explore and expand overseas, such as the caravel and the magnetic compass.

Colonization:

The act of establishing control over foreign lands and peoples, often involving the settlement of colonizers and the exploitation of resources.

Mercantilism:

An economic theory that emphasized the importance of accumulating wealth through trade and colonial expansion, driving many European powers to seek new territories.