What kinds of changes in science and economics made European exploration possible?
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To understand the changes in science and economics that made European exploration possible, you can refer to the provided website: http://www.learner.org/exhibits/renaissance/exploration.html. Here's a breakdown of the key points:
1. Science: During the Renaissance period (14th to 17th centuries), advancements in science paved the way for European exploration. Some important developments include:
- Navigational Instruments: Innovations like the astrolabe and the magnetic compass improved sailors' ability to navigate accurately, allowing them to explore unfamiliar territories.
- Cartography: The invention of printing press facilitated the production and dissemination of accurate maps. Ptolemy's Geography, translated into Latin, became widely available, aiding navigational knowledge and mapmaking.
- Astronomy: The discovery of the heliocentric model by Copernicus challenged the prevailing geocentric view and provided a better understanding of celestial bodies, enabling more accurate navigation at sea.
- Scientific Method: Pioneered by Francis Bacon and others, the scientific method encouraged systematic observation and experimentation, stimulating curiosity and exploration.
2. Economics: Several economic factors also contributed to European exploration:
- Mercantilism: The prevailing economic theory emphasized accumulating imported wealth, leading European nations to seek new trade routes and sources of valuable goods.
- Joint Stock Companies: The formation of joint-stock companies, such as the Dutch East India Company and the British East India Company, allowed investors to pool resources and share risks, funding costly expeditions.
- Technological Advances: The development of advanced shipbuilding techniques, like the caravel and the galleon, made long-distance voyages more feasible, enabling trade expansion and exploration.
- Search for New Markets and Resources: The desire for rare goods, such as spices and precious metals, spurred exploration to distant lands, while the potential for new markets and trade routes drove European nations to expand their reach.
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