Which accurately describes why European nations were so eager to fund expeditions to the New World?
ANSWER:
European nations funded expeditions to the New World to gain lands, natural resources, and eventually income
To find an accurate answer to the question, one can begin by examining the historical context of the European nations during the time of the expeditions to the New World. During the 15th and 16th centuries, several European nations were eager to fund expeditions to the New World, which included areas such as the Americas and parts of Africa and Asia. This eagerness was primarily driven by three factors: acquiring lands, accessing valuable natural resources, and generating income.
Firstly, European nations, such as Spain, Portugal, England, France, and the Netherlands, sought to expand their territorial influence and establish colonies in the New World. This desire for land was driven by a mix of motives, including the acquisition of strategic military outposts, the establishment of religious missions, and the desire for political and economic dominance over rival European nations. Establishing colonies also provided a means to extend their cultural and political influence and to ensure control over trade routes.
Secondly, the New World was seen as a rich source of valuable natural resources that were scarce in Europe. European nations sought to exploit the abundant resources such as gold, silver, precious stones, timber, and various agricultural products found in the New World. These resources were believed to bring tremendous wealth to the nations that could successfully extract and trade them. The desire for these resources further motivated European nations to fund expeditions and establish colonies.
Lastly, the expeditions to the New World were also seen as a means to generate income and enhance economic growth. European nations hoped to establish profitable trading networks and monopolies with the New World colonies. By exploiting the abundant resources and establishing trade routes, they could engage in lucrative commerce and accumulate wealth. Additionally, colonies were perceived as potential markets for European manufactured goods, creating opportunities for economic expansion.
In summary, European nations were eager to fund expeditions to the New World primarily to gain lands, exploit valuable natural resources, and ultimately generate income. This desire for expansion, resources, and wealth drove the era of exploration and colonization, shaping the course of history.