What were the impacts of the Age of Exploration on the global landscape during the 15th to 17th centuries. Consider economic, cultural, and political consequences.(6 points)
1) Economic Impacts: The Age of Exploration led to the emergence of a global trading network, as European powers established colonies and established trade routes around the world. This resulted in the exchange of goods, resources, and wealth between regions. New resources, such as tobacco, sugar, and spices, were introduced to Europe, leading to the rise of mercantilism and the transformation of European economies.
2) Cultural Impacts: The Age of Exploration led to cultural diffusion and the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and technologies between different societies. European explorers encountered and interacted with indigenous peoples, leading to the spread of European languages, religions, and customs. This exchange also led to the introduction of new goods, foods, and cultural practices to different regions. Additionally, the establishment of colonies resulted in the intermingling of different cultures and the emergence of new societies with mixed cultural identities.
3) Political Impacts: The Age of Exploration contributed to the rise of European powers as global leaders and the formation of vast colonial empires. European nations, such as Spain, Portugal, England, France, and the Netherlands, competed for territories, resources, and trade dominance. Consequently, this led to conflict and wars, such as the Anglo-Spanish War and the Dutch Revolt. Additionally, the establishment of colonies allowed these European powers to control and exploit resources in distant lands, ultimately increasing their political influence on the global stage.
Overall, the Age of Exploration had significant economic, cultural, and political consequences. It reshaped the global landscape by creating new trade networks, spreading cultural influences, and resulting in the dominance of European powers through colonialism.