Economic:
- The search for new trade routes. Europeans sought to find new sea routes to Asia, the source of valuable spices, silks, and other luxury goods. The Portuguese, for example, sought a route around Africa to reach India, while the Spanish sought a western route to Asia.
- The discovery of new resources like gold, silver, and other valuable minerals. The Spanish conquistadors, for example, were driven by the desire for gold and silver when they explored and conquered the Americas.
Political:
- Expansion of territory and power. European nations competed with each other to establish colonies and expand their empires. This led to the exploration of new territories and the establishment of European settlements in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
Religious:
- The spread of Christianity. Many European explorers were motivated by a desire to spread Christianity to new peoples and convert them to the Catholic faith. The Portuguese, for example, were eager to spread Christianity in Africa, Asia, and Brazil.
Scientific:
- The pursuit of knowledge and scientific discovery. Many explorers were driven by a desire to learn about the world and to make new discoveries. This led to the exploration of new lands, the mapping of new territories, and the study of different cultures.