Topic 4.2 · c. 1450–1750

Exploration: Causes and Events from 1450 to 1750

States backed voyages to find trade routes, wealth, and influence. European expeditions connected regions in new ways and began lasting imperial expansion.

Topic 4.2 / Review

The big picture

What to know

States backed voyages to find trade routes, wealth, and influence. European expeditions connected regions in new ways and began lasting imperial expansion.

Example 1Portugal

Portugal funded voyages seeking maritime access to Asian trade.

Example 2Spain

Spain sponsored Atlantic expeditions that led to claims in the Americas.

Example 3Vasco da Gama

Vasco da Gama reached the Indian Ocean by sailing around Africa.

Try it yourself

Check your understanding

01 / Multiple choice · 3 questions

Choose one answer for each question. Feedback appears below it.

Question 01

Which example fits this clue? This example funded voyages seeking maritime access to Asian trade.

Select an answer to check your thinking.

Question 02

Which example fits this clue? This example sponsored Atlantic expeditions that led to claims in the Americas.

Select an answer to check your thinking.

Question 03

Which example fits this clue? This example reached the Indian Ocean by sailing around Africa.

Select an answer to check your thinking.

02 / Write with evidence

Write a short response

Why did states sponsor ocean exploration?

Make a claim that answers the question.
Use two examples from the review.
Explain how the examples support your claim.

See a model response

States backed voyages to find trade routes, wealth, and influence. Portugal funded voyages seeking maritime access to Asian trade. Spain sponsored Atlantic expeditions that led to claims in the Americas.

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Resources & review

Quick study check

Before opening another resource, explain these examples from memory. Reveal each explanation to check yourself.

Portugal

Portugal funded voyages seeking maritime access to Asian trade.

Spain

Spain sponsored Atlantic expeditions that led to claims in the Americas.

Vasco da Gama

Vasco da Gama reached the Indian Ocean by sailing around Africa.

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