TECHNOLOGY in Sea-Based Empires [AP World History Review—Unit 4 Topic 1]

Introduction to Sea-Based Empires

• The period from 1450 to 1750 saw the rise of sea-based empires, significantly changing the global balance of power.

• This period marked a notable shift from land-based empires to empires that operated primarily via maritime routes.

European States and Power Dynamics

• European states emerged as powerful entities, in contrast to previous periods where their influence was minimal.

• Despite land-based empires remaining, the focus shifted towards naval power and commerce.

• This shift is described as European states putting on their "power pants" to take control on a global scale.

Maritime Technologies that Enabled Expansion

• Several key maritime technologies adopted by Europeans were critical in establishing and expanding sea-based empires:

  • Magnetic Compass:

    • Developed in China, this tool allowed sailors to accurately determine direction.

  • Astrolabe:

    • Enabled sailors to determine their latitude and longitude by measuring stars. Debated origins are attributed to either Arabs or Greeks.

  • Lateen Sail:

    • A triangular sail that could catch winds from either side, allowing for more effective navigation. Originated from Arab merchants.

  • Improved Astronomical Charts:

    • Detailed diagrams of stars and constellations, primarily developed by Muslims, which built upon Greek astronomy.

• It is crucial to recognize that these technologies were adopted, not invented by Europeans, often through trade routes enhanced by the Pax Mongolica.

Innovations in Shipbuilding

• European innovations in shipbuilding further solidified their maritime dominance:

  • Portuguese Caravel:

    • Smaller, nimble ships able to navigate shallow coastal areas; equipped with cannons for defense and combat, making them effective in military engagements.

  • Portuguese Carrack:

    • Larger ships capable of carrying more cargo and equipped with more artillery, essential for global trade and imperial ambitions.

  • Dutch Fluyt:

    • Exclusively designed for trade with a large cargo hold and minimal crew requirements; cheaper to build due to innovative construction techniques; by the mid-17th century, responsible for half of Europe's shipping tonnage.

Conclusion

• The fusion of adopted maritime technologies and innovations in shipbuilding played a pivotal role in establishing European dominance in global trade and conquest during the period from 1450 to 1750.