NEED to Know - Exploration and The Commercial Revolution

Technological Innovations

Significant advancements such as the astrolabe, compass, and the caravel that facilitated European exploration during the period 1450-1648.

The 3 Gs of Motivation

Gold, God, Glory; the primary motivations for European exploration and expansion.

Mercantilism

An economic practice that promotes government control of the economy with a focus on accumulating bullion and maintaining a favorable balance of trade.

Columbian Exchange

The widespread transfer of plants, animals, and diseases between the Old and New Worlds following Columbus's voyages.

Asiento

The system through which Britain gained control of the slave trade from Spain during the colonial period.

The Price Revolution

A period of gradual rising prices and inflation in Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries where wages remained static.

Encomienda System

A system in the Spanish colonies where landowners were granted rights to the labor of local indigenous people.

Treaty of Tordesillas

A 1494 agreement between Spain and Portugal, brokered by the Pope, to divide newly discovered lands between them.

Cortes and Pizarro

Spanish Conquistadors who were instrumental in the conquests of the Aztec and Inca empires.

Commercial Revolution

The expansion of trade and commerce in Europe beginning in the late Middle Ages and continuing into the early modern period.