Why did Columbus travel across the Atlantic Ocean?
To establish a fur trade with Natives
To find a new route to Asia
To convert Natives to Christianity
To capture Mexico City for Spain
To find a new route to Asia.
Columbus traveled across the Atlantic Ocean primarily to find a new route to Asia.
Columbus traveled across the Atlantic Ocean primarily with the goal of finding a new route to Asia. During the 15th and 16th centuries, the established trade routes to Asia were controlled by the Ottomans and other powerful empires. Columbus believed that by sailing west, he could reach the East Indies (modern-day Southeast Asia) and establish a direct trade route with Asia, bypassing the middlemen and potentially gaining access to valuable spices, silk, and other goods.
In addition to finding a new trade route, Columbus also hoped to spread Christianity to lands he discovered. As a devout Catholic, he saw his voyages as an opportunity to spread the Christian faith and convert indigenous peoples to Christianity.
It is important to note that Columbus' initial voyages were not motivated by the desire to establish a fur trade with natives or to capture Mexico City for Spain. These objectives were more closely associated with other explorers and conquistadors who followed Columbus's voyages.