Which option accurately describes the reason for Ferdinand Magellan’s exploration efforts?

A. to be the first person to conquer the Incan Empire and establish Spanish colonies
B. to be the first person to reach the Spice Islands by sailing west from Europe
C. to be the first person to conquer the Aztec Empire and establish Spanish colonies
D. to be the first person to reach China via a sea route to trade for silk

I think it's B.

You're correct.

Thank You!

You are correct! The accurate option is B. Ferdinand Magellan's exploration efforts were aimed at being the first person to reach the Spice Islands by sailing west from Europe.

To determine the accurate answer, we need to analyze the given options and evaluate Ferdinand Magellan's exploration efforts. Let's break down each option:

A. to be the first person to conquer the Incan Empire and establish Spanish colonies: This option is not accurate. Although Magellan's expedition took place during the Spanish conquest of the Americas, his primary goal was not to conquer the Incan Empire. Additionally, Magellan's voyage focused on finding trade routes, not establishing Spanish colonies in the Americas.

B. to be the first person to reach the Spice Islands by sailing west from Europe: This option accurately reflects Ferdinand Magellan's exploration efforts. Magellan's primary objective was to find a western sea route from Europe to the Spice Islands (also known as the Moluccas or the East Indies) in Southeast Asia. By reaching the Spice Islands, Magellan aimed to establish a direct trade route for valuable spices.

C. to be the first person to conquer the Aztec Empire and establish Spanish colonies: This option is not accurate. Magellan's exploration efforts did not involve the conquest of the Aztec Empire, which occurred in the early 16th century with the arrival of Hernán Cortés in Mexico. Magellan's focus was on reaching the Spice Islands and finding new trade routes.

D. to be the first person to reach China via a sea route to trade for silk: This option is not accurate. Though reaching China and trading for silk were desired outcomes for many explorers during the Age of Discovery, Magellan's main objective was to reach the Spice Islands, not China.

Therefore, the correct answer is B. Ferdinand Magellan's primary motivation for his exploration efforts was to be the first person to reach the Spice Islands by sailing west from Europe.