Motivations for Exploration and Howard Zinn's Contributions to U.S. History

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the motivations for exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries as well as Howard Zinn's contributions to the study of U.S. history.

What four key motivations drove the explorers of the 15th and 16th centuries?

The search for gold, glory, the Northwest Passage, and the competition among European nations.

What was mercantilism?

An economic policy where nations competed for the most favorable balance of trade, aiming to amass silver and gold.

Who was John Cabot and what was his contribution to exploration?

John Cabot was an explorer sent by England in 1497 to find the Northwest Passage; he is credited with discovering parts of North America.

What did Giovanni da Verrazzano accomplish in his explorations?

He explored much of the North American coastline and contributed to the creation of a widely distributed outline map.

What was the outcome of Jacques Cartier's explorations in search of gold?

Despite returning with what he thought were gold and diamonds, they turned out to be pyrite and quartz; his settlements ultimately failed.

What was the fate of the Roanoke colony?

The colony was abandoned with no clear signs of struggle; the word 'Croatoan' was found carved into a tree.

How did Sir Francis Drake impact English exploration and naval power?

Drake's successful raid on Spanish ports and circumnavigation of the globe led to increased English wealth and naval strength.

Who was Howard Zinn, and what was his approach to U.S. history?

Howard Zinn was a historian who focused on a bottom-up perspective, highlighting the voices of underrepresented groups in American history.

What is the significance of Zinn's book 'A People's History of the United States'?

It reexamines American history from the perspectives of women, immigrants, and other marginalized groups, challenging traditional narratives.

What criticisms exist regarding Howard Zinn's work?

His methods may lead to factual mistakes, his ideological progression may oversimplify history, and he wasn't the first to use a people's perspective.