1. Expanding European Exploration: Columbus was part of a broader wave of European exploration during the Age of Discovery, which began in the 15th century. European powers sought to find new trade routes and expand their influence and wealth. Columbus hoped to find a direct route to Asia (specifically, India and China), which were known for their rich spices, silks, and other valuable goods.
2. Economic Gains and Royal Support: Columbus' expeditions were heavily influenced by economic incentives. He convinced the Spanish crown, particularly Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II of Spain, to finance his voyage with the promise of bringing back wealth and resources for the kingdom. Gaining royal patronage was crucial for obtaining funding, ships, and crew.
3. Religious Motives: Columbus was a deeply religious man who believed that spreading Christianity to non-Christian lands was a pious and noble mission. He wanted to establish Catholic colonies in the Americas, convert the indigenous people to Catholicism, and extend the influence of the Spanish crown and Catholic Church.
4. Personal Ambition and Desire for Honor: While self-glory played a role in Columbus' motivations, it was intertwined with his religious and economic objectives. He envisioned himself as a pioneer, discovering new lands and achieving great fame and prestige for his accomplishments. The notion of "self-glory" in the context of Columbus' voyages should be understood within the social and cultural values of the time.
So, while the pursuit of riches and self-glory were part of Columbus' motivations, they were not his sole or primary driving forces. His ventures were part of a larger exploration endeavor, tied to economic opportunities, religious beliefs, and a desire to make a lasting impact on the world stage.