The three G's - Gold, Glory, and God - played a significant role in motivating European explorers to come to the Americas:
1. Gold: One of the major motivations for European explorers was the prospect of finding gold and other valuable resources in the Americas. The legends of El Dorado and the Seven Cities of Cibola, which were said to be cities made of gold, fueled the desire to search for wealth. Explorers believed that they could amass great fortunes by discovering new trade routes and exploiting the natural resources of the New World.
2. Glory: Many European explorers were driven by the desire for personal glory and fame. They sought to make a name for themselves and their countries by being the first to discover and conquer new territories. The opportunity to establish colonies, claim new lands, and prove their courage and valor motivated explorers to set sail and face the unknown challenges of the unexplored Americas.
3. God: Religious motivations were also significant in driving European explorers to the Americas. The Catholic Church played a pivotal role in supporting and financing expeditions to spread Christianity. Explorers saw themselves as instruments of God's will, aiming to convert indigenous populations to Christianity. They believed they had a duty to bring salvation to the pagan inhabitants of the New World and saw exploration as a way to fulfill their religious obligations.
In summary, the desire for wealth, fame, and religious fulfillment were the primary motivators that pushed European explorers to leave their homes and embark on the dangerous and uncertain journeys to the Americas.
How did the three G's motivate European explorers to come to the Americas
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