Why did Europeans look for new trade routes to Asia?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about various historical inquiries related to European exploration and colonization, particularly concerning Columbus, Native Americans, and Spanish and French interactions with their territories.
Answer
To bypass middlemen and access Asian goods directly.
Europeans searched for new trade routes to Asia mainly to bypass Islamic middlemen who controlled overland routes and increased costs. They desired access to Asian spices and luxury goods directly, which would increase their wealth and trade dominance.
Answer for screen readers
Europeans searched for new trade routes to Asia mainly to bypass Islamic middlemen who controlled overland routes and increased costs. They desired access to Asian spices and luxury goods directly, which would increase their wealth and trade dominance.
More Information
The desire for spices, silk, and luxury goods was a significant driver for exploration, along with avoiding high tariffs imposed by middlemen.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming only economic reasons drove exploration, overlooking political and religious factors.
Sources
- Why did the Europeans look for a new trade route to the east? - quora.com
- European Motivations for Exploration - coreknowledge.org
- Why did Europeans want to find a direct sea route to Asia? - homework.study.com
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