Reasons for ExplorationFantasy literature- The Travels of John Mandeville, told of different lands that held treasure, exotic creatures, and were frightening, magical, and mysterious . Other writings told of Christian kingdoms.
Fascination of lands outside of Europe Breakup of the Mongol Empire and the conquests of Ottoman Turks- led to the closing of overland routes and a decrease in travel. It also led Europeans to question if there was a way to Asia by sea. Economic- hopes to find precious metals, new areas of trade, and a direct access to the spices of the East. Religion- to save the people by spreading the faith of the Lord. “God, glory, and gold” |
How it was PossibleThe growth of centralized monarchies- increased power and resources led them to look beyond their border to turn their energies (Spain and Portugal).
Wealth and technology Fairly accurate maps- Ptolemy’s Geography (map) showed the world as a sphere with Europe, Asia, and Africa as three major landmasses and included only two oceans. Greater sea ships, the compass, and increasing knowledge of wind patterns in the Atlantic Ocean |