The Age of Exploration 1
History: KS3, topic 1.12.6
The Age of Exploration
In this section, we will be discovering how the Age of Exploration during the Renaissance expanded the known world and changed the course of history.
Introduction
- The Renaissance was not just about amazing art and new scientific ideas.
- It was also a time when explorers set sail to discover new lands, find trade routes, and learn about the world beyond Europe.
Why did people explore?
- People wanted to find new routes to trade with Asia for valuable spices, silk and other goods.
- The old land routes to Asia were long and dangerous.
- Finding a sea route promised quicker and safer access to these riches.
Expansion
- Many explorers also aimed to spread Christianity to new lands.
- Alongside traders, missionaries travelled to spread their faith.
- Kings and queens wanted to expand their empires and become more powerful by claiming new territories.
- Establishing colonies in new lands allowed European countries to grow their influence and control over global trade.
Key Explorers & Their Discoveries
- Christopher Columbus was an Italian explorer sponsored by Spain.
- In 1492, he set sail and discovered the Americas, opening up a new world for Europeans.
- Columbus made four voyages to the New World, exploring the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America.
New Trading Route
- Vasco da Gama was a Portuguese explorer who was the first to reach India by sea in 1498.
- Da Gama’s successful voyage established a direct route between Europe and Asia, boosting trade.
The World’s Geography
- Ferdinand Magellan led the first expedition to sail around the world, proving that the Earth was round.
- Although Magellan was killed in the Philippines, his expedition completed the journey, providing valuable information about the world’s geography.
Test yourself on The Age of Exploration 1
What did Ferdinand Magellan prove?