History: European Exploration

Economic

factors that motivated European nations to explore and colonize new lands, including the pursuit of trade routes, resources, and wealth.

Political

 related to government, policies, and power structures that influence exploration and colonization.

Social

refers to the cultural, religious, and societal motivations driving European exploration, such as the spread of Christianity, the desire for adventure, and the search for land for settlement.

Colonization

the process of European nations establishing control over foreign lands and peoples, often involving settlement and exploitation of resources.

Treaty

A formally concluded agreement between countries.

Missionary

An individual sent to promote religious beliefs in a new territory, often accompanying explorers and settlers.

Caravel

A small, fast sailing ship developed in the 15th century, used by European explorers for long voyages.

Mercantilism

An economic system where a “mother country” benefits from this Colonies by trading raw materials for finished goods.

Charter

A formal document issued by a governing authority outlining the rights and privileges of a group or organization, often granting permission to establish a colony or undertake a specific enterprise.

Assimilation

The process by which a minority group adopts the customs, values, and behaviors of the dominant culture, often leading to the loss of their original cultural identity.