What were the major rivalries and conflicts between European powers during the Age of Exploration?

During the Age of Exploration, there were several major rivalries and conflicts between European powers. These conflicts were primarily driven by competition for resources, trade routes, and territorial expansion. Some of the major rivalries and conflicts include:

1. Portugal vs. Spain: Portugal and Spain were the two dominant powers during this period. The rivalry between them was mainly focused on the control of trade routes and the exploration of new territories. The Treaty of Tordesillas in 1494 attempted to divide the newly discovered lands between the two powers, but conflicts still arose over the control of specific regions, such as Brazil.

2. England vs. Spain: England, under the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, challenged Spain's dominance in the exploration and colonization of the New World. The conflict between the two powers escalated with the Spanish Armada's failed invasion of England in 1588. This event marked a turning point in European naval power and solidified England's rise as a major maritime nation.

3. France vs. England: France also sought to challenge England's growing influence in the New World. The rivalry between the two powers led to conflicts over the control of territories in North America, particularly in areas such as present-day Canada and the Great Lakes region.

4. Netherlands vs. Spain and Portugal: The Dutch Republic emerged as a major maritime power during the Age of Exploration. The Dutch challenged the Spanish and Portuguese dominance in trade and colonization, particularly in the East Indies (modern-day Indonesia) and Brazil. This rivalry led to several conflicts, including the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule and the Dutch-Portuguese War.

5. England vs. Netherlands: As both powers sought to expand their colonial empires, conflicts arose between England and the Netherlands. The Anglo-Dutch Wars in the 17th century were primarily fought over trade routes and control of colonies, particularly in the Caribbean and North America.

These rivalries and conflicts between European powers during the Age of Exploration played a significant role in shaping the course of history, leading to the establishment of colonial empires and the eventual rise of European dominance in global affairs.