How did the protestant reformation impact European explosion during the 16th century?(2points)

Answer 1

The Protestant Reformation had a significant impact on the European exploration during the 16th century in the following ways:

1. Motivation for Expansion: The Reformation altered the religious landscape of Europe and intensified competition between Catholic and Protestant nations. This rivalry spurred countries such as Spain and Portugal (Catholic powers) against emerging Protestant nations like England and the Netherlands. Each sought to expand their territories and influence, often through exploration and colonization, to spread their version of Christianity and counteract the influence of their rivals.

2. Support for Exploration: The Reformation fostered a spirit of inquiry and individualism that aligned with the Age of Exploration. Protestant reformers and supporters often valued literacy and education, which encouraged the dissemination of maps, navigation techniques, and accounts of new lands. Additionally, Protestant nations established their own colonies for trade, resource extraction, and spreading Protestantism, further driving the exploration efforts.

These factors collectively contributed to the significant European territorial expansion and overseas exploration during the 16th century.