western europe

Western Europe

Why European states became more centralized: To compete more effectively for resources, trade, and territory

• Monarchs centralized power to better manage wars, taxation, and expansion.

Role of standing armies in Europe: Permanent, professional national armies

• These armies replaced feudal militias and allowed states to protect their interests year-round.

What is mercantilism: An economic philosophy that focused on accumulating wealth by exporting more than importing

• Mercantilism was based on the belief that there was a limited amount of wealth in the world.

• Colonies existed to provide natural resources and serve as markets for the home country’s goods.

Goals of European exploration:

• Wealth: Gold, silver, natural resources.

• Trade: Access to valuable goods like spices, silk, and furs.

• Glory: Power for the nation and king.

• Christianity: Missionary efforts to convert indigenous peoples.

Technologies that helped European exploration:

• Borrowed Tech: Compass, astrolabe, gunpowder.

• European Innovations: Caravels (ships with better sails), cannons, steel weapons, horses.

How the Spanish conquered the Aztecs: By forming alliances with local enemies of the Aztecs

• Many indigenous groups resented Aztec rule and tribute demands, so they sided with the Spanish.