List two reasons european countries wanted to start new colonies in america?
http://alumnicollege.wlu.edu/campus_programs/Gold_God_Glory/Gold_God_Glory.htm
Here are a number of articles on reasons for European colonization of the Americas.
http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761576293_2/Colonialism_and_Colonies.html#s8
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_First_European_colonization_wave_(15th_century-19th_century)
http://www.cyberessays.com/History/145.htm
European countries had several reasons for wanting to start new colonies in America. Here are two main reasons:
1. Economic Motives: One of the primary reasons European countries sought out colonies in America was to establish profitable trade networks and access valuable resources. For example, Spain and Portugal wanted to gain control over the lucrative spice trade in Asia. However, when Christopher Columbus accidentally discovered the Americas, these countries shifted their focus to exploiting the bountiful resources found in the newly discovered lands. They sought gold, silver, and other precious minerals, as well as land for agriculture and natural resources like timber and fur. The colonies also served as markets for European goods, creating a favorable balance of trade that benefited the mother country economically.
To find more details on specific economic motives, you can explore historical sources such as books, academic articles, and websites that focus on the economic history of European colonization.
2. Geopolitical Competition: European countries were engaged in intense geopolitical competition during the Age of Exploration. They sought to assert their dominance and expand their spheres of influence across the globe. By establishing colonies, European powers could strengthen their naval presence and secure strategic positions. The control over key ports, harbors, and trade routes would provide them with a significant advantage in future conflicts and a means to project power. Moreover, colonies acted as military outposts, supplying European nations with a place to station troops and protect their interests abroad.
To delve deeper into the geopolitical competition among European countries during the colonial era, you can refer to historical accounts, geopolitical analyses, and primary sources from that time period.
By examining historical records, analyzing scholarly works, and engaging with credible sources, you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the complex motivations behind European countries' colonization of America.