Age of Discovery

Definition

The Age of Discovery refers to a period from the late 15th century to the early 17th century when European powers began extensive exploration and colonization of the world, seeking new trade routes, resources, and territories. This era led to significant cultural exchanges, advancements in navigation, and the establishment of maritime empires that reshaped global interactions and economies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Age of Discovery was marked by major voyages undertaken by figures such as Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, and Ferdinand Magellan, who expanded European knowledge of geography.
2. European nations established maritime empires, with Spain and Portugal being the leading powers in exploration, claiming vast territories in the Americas and Asia.
3. Technological advancements like the astrolabe, compass, and improved ship designs facilitated long-distance sea travel during this period.
4. The search for new trade routes and resources led to the establishment of trading posts and colonies in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
5. The Age of Discovery had lasting impacts on indigenous populations, leading to cultural exchanges as well as exploitation, disease spread, and significant demographic changes.

Review Questions

• How did technological advancements contribute to the exploration efforts during the Age of Discovery?
  • Technological advancements played a crucial role in enabling exploration during the Age of Discovery. Innovations such as the astrolabe allowed navigators to determine latitude at sea, while the magnetic compass helped with directional navigation. Additionally, improvements in ship design, like the caravel, made it possible for explorers to travel longer distances safely. These technologies together enhanced European capabilities in exploring uncharted waters and claiming new lands.
• Discuss how the Age of Discovery influenced global trade patterns and economic systems.
  • The Age of Discovery drastically altered global trade patterns by opening new trade routes between Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. European powers sought valuable commodities such as spices, gold, silver, and sugar which led to an increase in mercantilist practices aimed at accumulating wealth through trade. The establishment of colonies enabled these nations to exploit local resources and markets while facilitating a shift towards a more interconnected global economy that set the foundation for future economic systems.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of the Age of Discovery on indigenous populations across different continents.
  • The long-term consequences of the Age of Discovery on indigenous populations were profound and often devastating. The arrival of Europeans brought diseases like smallpox that decimated native populations who had no immunity. Additionally, colonization led to significant social upheaval as indigenous cultures were disrupted or destroyed by European expansion. While some cultures experienced exchange and adaptation, many faced exploitation through slavery and forced labor systems. These impacts contributed to long-lasting inequalities and altered demographic landscapes across continents.

Related terms

Columbian Exchange:

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

Mercantilism:

An economic theory prevalent during the Age of Discovery that emphasized the importance of accumulating wealth through trade and maintaining a favorable balance of exports over imports.

Cartography: The science and art of map-making, which advanced significantly during the Age of Discovery as explorers sought to chart new lands and sea routes.