History The Age Of Exploration Questions Medium
During the Age of Exploration, which took place from the 15th to the 17th centuries, several major discoveries and achievements were made that had a significant impact on world history. Some of the key discoveries and achievements during this period include:
1. Discovery of new trade routes: One of the primary motivations for exploration was the search for new trade routes to Asia. Portuguese explorers, such as Vasco da Gama, successfully sailed around the Cape of Good Hope and reached India, establishing direct trade links with Asia. Christopher Columbus, on behalf of Spain, discovered the Americas while searching for a western route to Asia.
2. Circumnavigation of the globe: Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer sailing for Spain, led the first successful circumnavigation of the globe. This achievement proved that the Earth was round and opened up new possibilities for global trade and navigation.
3. Mapping and cartography: Explorers during this period significantly improved the accuracy of maps and navigational charts. They used new instruments like the astrolabe and quadrant to determine latitude and longitude, leading to more precise mapping of the world.
4. Scientific discoveries: Explorers made several scientific discoveries during their voyages. For example, James Cook's expeditions in the Pacific led to the discovery and documentation of new plant and animal species. These scientific findings greatly expanded European knowledge of the natural world.
5. Colonial expansion: The Age of Exploration also marked the beginning of European colonial expansion. European powers established colonies in the Americas, Africa, and Asia, leading to the spread of European culture, language, and institutions across the globe.
6. Exchange of goods and ideas: The exploration and subsequent colonization resulted in the exchange of goods, ideas, and technologies between different regions of the world. This process, known as the Columbian Exchange, had a profound impact on the global economy, agriculture, and culture.
7. Advances in shipbuilding and navigation: The need for long-distance voyages led to advancements in shipbuilding techniques. The development of caravels and galleons, along with improvements in navigational instruments, made long-distance exploration and trade more feasible.
Overall, the major discoveries and achievements made during the Age of Exploration transformed the world by expanding geographical knowledge, establishing new trade routes, initiating colonial expansion, and facilitating the exchange of goods and ideas between different regions.