During the 1500s and 1600s, two prominent colonial empires that ascended were the Spanish Empire and the Portuguese Empire. The Spanish Empire expanded significantly in the Americas following Christopher Columbus's voyage in 1492, leading to the conquest of vast territories, rich in resources like gold and silver, which fueled European economies and spurred further exploration. Meanwhile, the Portuguese Empire established a vast trade network in Africa, Asia, and Brazil, driven by advancements in navigation and maritime technology, as well as a desire for spices, gold, and a route to Asia, leading to significant wealth and influence in global trade.
Which colonial empires were ascended in the 1500s and 1600s? Write 2-3 sentences in what they achieved and what factors drove these changes.
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