The Return of Columbus & Tordesillas Treaty Flashcards

Study Notes

Papal Bull and Treaty

Inter Caetera (1493): Issued by Pope Alexander VI, gave Spain the right to colonize the Americas and Portugal the right to colonize Africa, establishing a demarcation line.
Treaty of Tordesillas (1494): Formalized the division of newly discovered lands between Spain and Portugal, designating territories west and east of the imaginary line in the Atlantic.

Key Historical Figures

Cristoforo Colombo: Italian navigator, explored on behalf of Spain, credited with discovering the New World while seeking a route to China.
Queen Isabella: Monarch of Castile, pivotal in the Reconquista, endorsed Columbus's expeditions, imposed Christianity on non-convertible Jews and Muslims.
King Ferdinand: Monarch of Spain, provided financial support for Columbus's 1492 expedition leading to the discovery of the Americas.
Pope Alexander VI: Played a crucial role in resolving territorial disputes between Spain and Portugal, authorized Spanish ecclesiastical appointments in the New World.

Legal and Political Concepts

Discovery: Refers to revealing or acknowledging the existence of a territory or resource previously unknown.
Innocent Passage: Grants vessels from one state the right to navigate through another state's territorial waters without hindrance.
Sovereign Territory: Defined by recognized governance, stable population, functioning economy, and ability to engage in foreign relations.
Natural Law: Universal moral principles regarded as inherent in nature, viewed as superior to human-made laws.

Description

Test your knowledge on key historical concepts related to the Return of Columbus and the Treaty of Tordesillas. This quiz explores important terms like Inter Caetera and the implications of the treaty on colonization. Perfect for students of history and international relations!