God, Gold, and Glory
They had heard of valuable spices and other wealth that others had found.
European rulers were willing to finance expensive explorations primarily to expand their empires, acquire new trade routes, and access valuable resources such as spices, gold, and silver. Additionally, exploration was seen as a way to spread Christianity and enhance national prestige. The promise of new territories and wealth motivated monarchs to invest heavily in voyages that could yield significant economic and strategic advantages.
If you follow the money, there was quite a bit to made if a shorter passage was found to China. The trips around the Horn and around South America were difficult and many ships were lost.
Rulers were willing to sponsor voyages during the Age of Exploration primarily to expand their empires and increase their wealth through trade and resource acquisition. They sought new trade routes to access valuable commodities like spices, gold, and silk, which could enhance their economies. Additionally, sponsoring explorations allowed them to spread their influence and Christianity, assert power over rival nations, and secure strategic territories. Overall, the pursuit of knowledge and prestige also motivated rulers to back these endeavors.
Europeans were motivated to pay for expensive voyages to find a Northwest Passage due to the potential for a shorter and more direct trade route to Asia, which would facilitate lucrative trade in spices, silk, and other valuable goods. The desire to bypass the overland routes controlled by rival powers and the Ottoman Empire further fueled this interest. Additionally, the age of exploration was characterized by national pride and competition among European nations, prompting them to invest in expeditions to assert their dominance and expand their empires.
The Age of Exploration had a great impact on geography. Explorers travelled around the world to different regions to learn more about Africa and America and brought back their knowledge to Europe. The first country that started the Age of Exploration was Portugal while under the leadership of Henry the Navigator.
Living conditions in Europe improved
They wanted to ensure pharaoh's place in the afterlife
Christopher Columbus is from Genoa, Italy, so he was Italian. He sailed to the Americas for Spain, though, because Spain's monarchs were willing to finance the voyages.
Which is more dangerous barracuda or piranha
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