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Age Of Exploration DBQ

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Pd. 2 Europe dominated the Age of Exploration, which was caused by the desire to find new trade routes, for control and power, and for wealth. The Age of Exploration helped the Renaissance develop through mercantilism. The desire for new trade routes by the Europeans was one reason the Age of Exploration began. In Document 1 it is written that the Europeans were afraid of the Ottoman Empire due to their rapid expansion and powerful military. This shows that Europe was afraid to challenge them and they were pushed to expand and find other trade routes. Document 2 depicts the power the Ottoman had and the control they held over Mediterranean Sea trade, therefore preventing the Safavid and Europeans from trading. Because of this, Europe …show more content…

Document 3 is a map showing Portugal’s exploration routes. The document shows how Portugal did expensive exploration in search for new goods and slaves. The country gained a lot of power through their exploration and the control they gained of Indian Ocean trade ports. Document 4 is an excerpt from the journal of explorer Christopher Columbus, who wrote of how noble he believed himself to be for his exploration, calling himself “High Admiral of the Sea”. Columbus also wrote that the reason for his exploration was to convert others to Christianity. This shows that Columbus explored for the glory (hence, declaring himself noble), and to make his country’s religion stronger by converting others. Both documents exemplify the desire Europeans had for glory, power, and control, all of which motivated them to …show more content…

The mercantilism apart of this age in turn caused the Renaissance. Document 7 is a painting of a man and his wife surrounded by riches. The caption tells that the Age of Exploration allowed Europe’s economy to expand as more goods were being sent back to these countries thanks to mercantilism. This helped begin the Renaissance as more money was available for people to spend on luxuries like the arts. Document 8 in an excerpt written by Thomas Mun, economist and mercantilist, and describes the good economical situation in Europe. The document tells of art schools, improvement of the land, treasure, and the fulfillment of citizens’ wants. Based upon this document it can be inferred that the economy at this time was thriving due to mercantilism, and mention of art schools shows the focus on the arts characteristic of the Renaissance. From these two documents it’s clear that Europe’s success in exploration led to economic improvements and allowing the Renaissance to

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