how did the Europeans perceive themselves in the world during the1450s through the 1700s
http://www.jiskha.com/display.cgi?id=1234717863
I still I don't understand so did the Europeans perceive themselves as the only people who had good military and was above everyone else.
Yes. The Europeans looked down on everyone else in the world as being savages.
Ok thanks
You're welcome, Sarah.
To understand how the Europeans perceived themselves in the world during the period from the 1450s to the 1700s, we can look at historical sources such as literature, artwork, and accounts of European explorers and colonizers. These sources shed light on the European worldview and their perception of their place in the world during this time.
1. Age of Discovery: The European mindset during this period was driven by a sense of curiosity, exploration, and a desire to expand their influence and reach. The discoveries made by European explorers, such as Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, and Ferdinand Magellan, fueled a belief in European superiority and global dominance.
2. Ethnocentrism: Europeans held a strong belief in the superiority of their culture, technology, and civilization. They often viewed other cultures as primitive or backward in comparison. This ethnocentric view influenced their interactions with indigenous populations they encountered during their explorations and subsequent colonization.
3. Colonization and Empire-building: As Europeans established colonies and expanded their empires, they regarded themselves as conquerors and the rightful owners of the lands they occupied. They saw themselves as bringing progress, enlightenment, and civilization to the regions they colonized, often justifying their actions with the concept of "civilizing missions."
4. Divine Right and Christianity: Many European monarchies during this period believed in the concept of divine right, which granted them the authority to rule. This notion intertwined with their perception of themselves as chosen by God to spread Christianity and convert indigenous peoples to their faith.
5. Intellectual and Scientific Advancements: Europeans saw themselves as at the forefront of intellectual and scientific progress. The Renaissance and the Enlightenment periods brought about significant advancements in art, science, philosophy, and political thought. These intellectual movements fostered a sense of European exceptionalism and a belief in the superiority of European intellect and rationality.
It is important to note that these perceptions varied among different European nations, social classes, and individuals. Furthermore, this understanding is based on historical analysis and interpretation, and individual perspectives and beliefs may have differed during that time.