Highly Religious Christians. Holy War (Crusades) to recapture Jerusalem and Spain from Muslims. Religious disagreements divide Western Europe into Protestants and Catholics (Reformation). Politically divided into competing kingdoms: Spain, France, England, ect… Increasingly influence of science and interest in the world (ex. Renaissance)
Went on a trade journey across Silk Road to China Saw how others lived Wrote influential “Description of the World”
Looking for ocean route to trade with India Landed in Bahamas Conquered native peoples and Set up first Spanish colony in Western Hemisphere
Sailed around Africa to India Announced he came to India for “Christians and Spices” Brought back spices, silks, jewels
First to sail around the world Died before he made it back
Conquered Aztec Empire Extended New Spain to present day Mexico Plundered Aztec Gold and Silver made Spain richest country in Europe
Conquered Incan Empire Extended New Spain to South America Plundered Incan Gold and Silver made Spain even richer
Sailed up the Saint Lawrence and claimed Canada for France
Traveled through southwest United States Gave Spain claims to land north of Mexico
Landed in Eastern Canada Established Quebec which was the first permanent French settlement
Landed on North American Coast Set up fur trading post in Albany, New York