* The rise of nation-states was accompanied by the spread of mercantilism, an economic system that aimed to maximize a nation's wealth and power through trade and colonization.
* This pursuit of economic dominance motivated nation-states to explore new lands and establish colonies, expanding their territories and resources.
2. Economic competition:
* The growth of nation-states sparked intense economic competition among European powers.
* Exploration became a means to secure access to valuable resources, new markets, and trade routes, as well as to gain an economic advantage over rival nations.
3. National Identity and Prestige:
* Building a strong and prestigious nation was a key objective of nation-states.
* Engaging in exploration and establishing colonies was seen as a way to enhance national pride, demonstrate power and influence, and gain international recognition.
4. Colonial Empires:
* The desire to build colonial empires was a driving force behind age of exploration.
* Nation-states sought to acquire colonies as a source of raw materials, markets for manufactured goods, and territories for settlement.
5. Technological advancements:
* The rise of nation-states coincided with significant technological advancements in various fields, such as navigation, cartography, and shipbuilding.
* These advancements enabled European explorers to venture further into uncharted territories and expand their discoveries.
6. Scientific Inquiry:
* The age of exploration was fueled by a growing interest in scientific inquiry and the pursuit of knowledge.
* Explorers often served as scientists, naturalists, and geographers, contributing to the expansion of scientific understanding.
7. Religious Motivations:
* Religious factors also played a role in age exploration, particularly for Catholic and protestant nation-states.
* Spreading their faith and converting indigenous peoples to Christianity were important goals for European explorers.