2. Black Death: The Black Death, a devastating pandemic that swept through Europe and Asia in the 14th century, caused widespread economic disruption and labour shortages, including shortages of skilled seafarers.
3. Rise of European Colonial Empires: European powers, such as Portugal and Spain, began exploring new sea routes to Asia, leading to the discovery of the Americas. This shift in trade focus diverted resources and attention away from the traditional Asian trade routes.
4. Ottoman Control of the Mediterranean: The Ottoman Empire's expansion into the Middle East and North Africa made it increasingly difficult for European merchants to access traditional land routes to Asia, particularly the Silk Road.
5. Technological Advances in Shipbuilding: European explorers developed new ship technologies, such as the carrack and the astrolabe, which enabled them to undertake long-distance voyages and bypass traditional trade routes.
Combined, these events significantly impacted Asian trade, leading to the decline of established trade networks and the eventual shift towards European dominance in global commerce during the Age of Exploration.