The Age of Exploration
Chapter 2: pg. 32-51
EUROPEANS SET SAIL
In section one, we’ll see … How economic changes in Europe make it possible to explore How the Renaissance gives sailors the knowledge and experience they need How a new attitude makes people ready for adventure How trade with China and Muslim states gives Europeans a reason to explore
Vocabulary terms for this section
• Write these down at the top of the page, and we’ll define them as we get to them …• Capital• Joint-stock companies• Astrolabe• Monopoly• Caravel
• Also write down, as we get to them, who these people are• Prince Henry• Bartolomeu Dias
The Commercial Revolution strikes
The Black Death strikes Kills 30 million
people Changes many
things, including the economy
New developments Capital Joint-stock
companies
“Money can do much; it should be held in high regard. It turns a tramp into a respected and honorable man … the more money a man has, the more worthy he becomes, while the man who is penniless cannot call himself his own master. Money makes hard things easy.” Juan Ruiz
The Renaissance affects Europe
Renaissance Rebirth of classical
culture from 1300s to 1600s
Greek and Roman knowledge comes back Art and architecture Science and astronomy
Leads to many advances in Europe New attitude – “one life
to live”
The Renaissance applied to sailing
Applying Greek and Roman knowledge Astronomy
The astrolabe Constellations
Geography – latitude and longitude Longitude – log-line and hourglass Latitude – cross-staff
Attitude and economy Attitude: man can do anything, including
explore Economy: joint-stock companies mean
adventures won’t bankrupt you
Trade with Africa and Asia
Riches through trade Africa – gold, ivory,
salt, slaves Asia – silk, spices
Too expensive! Overland from China Monopoly by Venice
Too dangerous! Turks in power Threats from
bandits
Big question from Spain and Portugal: Why not manage the
trade routes ourselves?
The Portuguese inch towards Asia
Prince Henry Navigation school Improved sailing tools Improved caravel
design Encouraged
exploration
Bartolemeu Dias First to reach southern
tip of Africa Asia within reach …
Spanish look for another route
In review …