2. Spirit of exploration: The 1500s marked a period of intense curiosity and a thirst for exploration among Europeans. Navigational advancements, such as the astrolabe and compass, enabled sailors to venture into uncharted waters. European explorers were eager to discover new lands, chart new territories, and expand their knowledge of the world.
3. Religious zeal: Religious fervor also played a significant role in European voyages during the 1500s. The spread of Christianity was a driving force behind many expeditions. Explorers aimed to convert indigenous populations to Christianity and establish new missions in the newly discovered lands. Additionally, the Protestant Reformation led to religious conflicts in Europe, prompting some Protestants to seek religious freedom in the New World.