Age of Exploration
Definition
A period from the 15th to the 17th century when European explorers ventured into unknown territories seeking new trade routes and resources. This era resulted in significant global exploration and colonization.
Analogy
Imagine being an adventurous explorer who sets sail on uncharted waters to discover new islands filled with treasures awaiting exploration.
Related terms
Columbian Exchange: The widespread transfer of plants, animals, diseases, and cultures between the Old World (Europe) and the New World (Americas) during the Age of Exploration.
Vasco da Gama: A Portuguese explorer who successfully navigated around Africa to reach India by sea, opening up a direct trade route between Europe and Asia.
Treaty of Tordesillas: An agreement between Spain and Portugal in 1494 that divided newly discovered lands outside Europe into separate spheres of influence.
"Age of Exploration" appears in:
Practice Questions (20+)
Which technological advancement played a significant role in the development of long-distance maritime trade during the Age of Exploration?
Which technological advancement allowed for the printing and dissemination of maps during the Age of Exploration?
Which of the following navigational instruments was essential for accurate sea navigation during the Age of Exploration?
Which European country took the lead in maritime exploration during the Age of Exploration?
Which technological advancement played a crucial role in facilitating the Age of Exploration?
Which two countries were the primary rivals in the struggle for dominance in the Americas during the Age of Exploration?
Which European country took the lead in early colonial expansion during the Age of Exploration?
Which region of the Americas was most heavily colonized by the Spanish during the Age of Exploration?
How did the Renaissance period influence the Age of Exploration and consequential international dynamics?
What was the principal motivation for European exploration during the Age of Exploration?
Who initiated the Age of Exploration by sponsoring numerous voyages from Portugal?
What caused a significant decrease in Native American populations following contact with Europeans during the age of exploration?
Which European country was the first to establish sea routes to the Indies during the Age of Exploration?
Who initiated England’s efforts in American colonization during its age of exploration?
Which technological advancement was NOT instrumental in making the Age of Exploration possible?
How did the Age of Exploration contribute to Europe’s shift from feudalism to modern nation-states?
Which was one major effect on Europe resulting from Portuguese control over trade routes during the Age of Exploration?
What change did the "Colombian Exchange" trigger on a global scale during the Age of Exploration?
How did advancements in navigation technology during Age of Exploration primarily affect European powers?
What is considered one major social consequence experienced by Native Americans as a result of Spanish conquest during the Age of Exploration?
Are you a college student?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.