Sure! Here are simplified answers to each of your points regarding the Age of Exploration:
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Renaissance Ideas: This period emphasized humanism, scientific inquiry, art, and a revival of classical knowledge, encouraging exploration and new ways of thinking about the world.
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Desire for Trade Routes, Spices, and Profits: European countries wanted direct access to the riches of Asia, especially spices, which were highly valuable for preserving food and for trade. Profits from these trade routes could significantly boost national wealth.
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Desire to Spread Christianity: Many Europeans believed it was their duty to convert non-Christians to Christianity, viewing this as a moral obligation and a way to expand their influence.
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New Technologies in Ships and Sailing: Innovations included the caravel (a faster, more maneuverable ship), the astrolabe (for navigation), and improved maps, which made long sea voyages possible and safer.
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Desire to Increase a Country’s Power: Expanding territories and controlling trade routes would enhance a nation’s wealth and influence, making it more powerful on the global stage.
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Absolute Monarchs Support Exploration: These rulers had the resources and authority to finance expeditions. They saw exploration as a way to expand their empires and consolidate their power.
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Mercantilist Economic Policies: This economic theory promoted the idea that a country’s wealth was measured by its stock of precious metals. Colonies provided raw materials that could be sent back to the mother country for production and profit, fostering economic growth and self-sufficiency.
These points summarize the motivations and developments that fueled the Age of Exploration in an easily understandable way!