What are three reasons and/or motivations for European exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries>

Gold, Glory, and God

Explanation:

Youve probably heard this before, but thats basically it. For a more in depth explanation, spain was one of the first along with portogal to colonize. The found the potosi silver mines which were the international standard. They became extremely rich and owned tons of land sparking their golden age. The portugese also owned many critical ports across the world that made them both a maritime power and rich. The god came from all of the european powers colonizing the natives and their attempts to convert them to christianity. it should be noted that the dutch never attempted to do so, which is why the japanese traded with them because they did not attempt to send converts. Also, more 19th and 20th century, the white mans burden/ social darwinism came into play when they tried to modernize and industrialize their colonies. The glory comes from the prestige that these powers would get by owning colonies. To uphold these colonies and establish racial dominance came with respect with the other countries. Its pretty dark but thats how it went.

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