Age of Discovery

Definition

The Age of Discovery was a period from the 15th to the 17th century marked by European explorations across the globe, driven by a thirst for knowledge, trade, and territorial expansion. This era saw the establishment of sea routes to Asia, Africa, and the Americas, leading to significant cultural exchanges and the beginning of global trade networks. It laid the foundation for modern globalization and dramatically altered the world economy and societies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Age of Discovery began with Portuguese explorations along the African coast and reached its height with Christopher Columbus's voyage to the Americas in 1492.
2. Explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan opened new sea routes to Asia and circumnavigated the globe, enhancing European knowledge of geography.
3. The quest for spices was a primary motivation behind many expeditions during this period, as spices were highly valued for their use in preserving food and culinary practices.
4. The Age of Discovery led to the establishment of European colonies in various parts of the world, significantly impacting indigenous populations through colonization and exploitation.
5. This era resulted in lasting changes to global economies, cultures, and ecosystems, creating interconnectedness that shaped international relations for centuries to come.

Review Questions

• How did the Age of Discovery influence European economies during this period?
  • The Age of Discovery had a profound impact on European economies as it opened up new trade routes and introduced valuable goods such as spices, sugar, and precious metals. The desire for wealth led to mercantilist policies that encouraged colonial expansion and competition among European powers. This economic shift not only increased national wealth but also created new markets and opportunities for trade, which ultimately fueled the growth of capitalism in Europe.
• Evaluate the cultural consequences of the Age of Discovery on both Europe and the indigenous populations encountered during this time.
  • The cultural consequences of the Age of Discovery were significant for both Europe and indigenous populations. In Europe, there was an influx of new ideas, foods, and materials that enriched cultures and lifestyles. Conversely, indigenous populations often faced devastating effects such as disease, displacement, and cultural disruption due to European colonization efforts. The interactions between these cultures led to both exchange and conflict, reshaping societies on both sides.
• Analyze how advancements in technology during the Age of Discovery facilitated exploration and impacted global trade patterns.
  • Advancements in navigation technology, such as the magnetic compass and astrolabe, along with improved ship designs like caravels allowed explorers to undertake longer voyages with greater safety. These innovations enabled Europeans to accurately chart new territories and establish trade routes across previously untraveled oceans. The resulting shift in global trade patterns not only increased European influence over global commerce but also initiated the integration of far-flung economies into a burgeoning world market that transformed societies worldwide.

Related terms

Mercantilism:

An economic theory that emphasized the importance of accumulating wealth through trade and colonization, advocating for a favorable balance of trade.

Columbian Exchange:

The widespread transfer of plants, animals, culture, human populations, technology, diseases, and ideas between the Americas and the Old World following Columbus's voyages.

Caravel:

A small, highly maneuverable sailing ship developed in the 15th century by the Portuguese, which played a significant role in exploration.