I what ways did the reformation in europe play a role/impact new world exploration?
http://www.history.com/topics/exploration/exploration-of-north-america
The Reformation in Europe had a significant impact on New World exploration in several ways. To understand this connection, we need to look at the historical context and its implications. Here's an explanation of how the Reformation influenced New World exploration:
1. Religious Motivation: The Reformation was a religious movement in the 16th century that led to the establishment of Protestantism as a separate branch of Christianity. During this time, the Catholic Church faced challenges to its authority, and various Protestant denominations emerged. Many Protestant reformers sought religious freedom and the opportunity to practice their faith without persecution from the Catholic Church. This religious motivation played a crucial role in driving people to explore the New World. They sought new territories where they could establish colonies and practice their own beliefs without interference.
2. Competition between Catholic and Protestant Powers: The Reformation heightened tensions between Catholic and Protestant powers in Europe. Countries like Spain and Portugal were predominantly Catholic, while countries like England, Netherlands, and later, Sweden, became Protestant. The Catholic powers, seeking to spread Catholicism, had already started exploring and colonizing the New World. The Protestant powers saw an opportunity to challenge the Catholic dominance and expand their influence. This religious competition acted as a catalyst for increased New World exploration and colonization.
3. Economic Factors: Alongside religious motivations, economic factors were also at play. The Catholic Church, through the practice of indulgences and the collection of tithes, held considerable wealth and economic power. The Protestant Reformation challenged these practices, leading to a redistribution of wealth and resources. The newly empowered Protestant countries sought to find alternative trade routes to Asia and establish their own profitable colonies, bypassing the traditional Catholic-controlled routes. This quest for economic growth and independence fueled exploration and discovery in the New World.
4. Technological Advancements: The Reformation coincided with the European Renaissance, a period of significant advancements in science and technology. These advancements, such as improved shipbuilding techniques, navigational instruments like the astrolabe and quadrant, and the dissemination of navigational knowledge, greatly aided the exploration of the New World. Protestant countries were at the forefront of these developments, which facilitated their ability to undertake long and arduous voyages across the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
In summary, the Reformation in Europe impacted New World exploration by providing religious motivation and competing interests between Catholic and Protestant powers. Economic factors and technological advancements further fueled this exploration. When studying historical events, it is essential to consider multiple factors and their interplay to fully understand their influence.