European Exploration In and Around the Americas
- The expanding economies of European states stimulated trade and a desire for exploration
Contributing Factors to Exploration
- Demand for gold, spices, and natural resources in Europe
- Support for the spread of Christianity
- Political and economic competition between European empires and countries
- Development of navigational tools in both European and Islamic cultures
European Explorers to the Americas
- Christopher Columbus (explored for Spain)
- John Cabot (explored for England)