Mercantilism was an economic policy that dominated Europe from the 16th to the 18th centuries. It was based on the idea that a country's wealth and power could be increased by accumulating gold and silver, which could be done through trade surpluses and the exploitation of colonies. Mercantilist policies included tariffs on imports, subsidies for exports, and the establishment of colonies.
Imperialism
Imperialism is a policy of extending a country's power and influence over other countries, usually through military force or economic dominance. Imperialism was practiced by European countries from the 15th to the 20th centuries. European imperial powers established colonies in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, and they exploited these colonies for their resources and labor.
Colonialism
Colonialism is the establishment and maintenance of a colony, which is a territory that is politically controlled by a foreign power. Colonies were often established by European countries as a way to gain access to resources and markets. European colonies were often located in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
Missionaries
Missionaries are people who are sent to spread a religion in a foreign country. Missionaries played a significant role in European expansion, as they helped to convert indigenous people to Christianity and spread European culture and values.
Explorers
Explorers are people who travel to unknown or little-known regions of the world. European explorers played a vital role in European expansion, as they helped to map the world and discover new trade routes.
Conquistadors
Conquistadors were Spanish and Portuguese explorers and soldiers who conquered and colonized large parts of the Americas in the 16th century. The conquistadors were motivated by a desire for gold and silver, as well as a desire to spread Christianity.