Europe's Age of Exploration represents a historical period from approximately the 15th to 17th centuries when European nations embarked on extensive voyages across oceans to discover new lands, establish colonies, trade routes, gain wealth through resources and trade.
Related terms
Columbian Exchange: The Columbian Exchange refers to the widespread transfer of plants, animals, diseases, ideas, culture between Afro-Eurasian regions (Old World) and American continents (New World) following Christopher Columbus' voyage in 1492.
Mercantilism: Mercantilism is an economic theory prevalent during the Age of Exploration, which focused on maximizing a nation's wealth through the accumulation of precious metals and a favorable balance of trade.
Global Trade Networks: Global trade networks emerged during this period as European nations established maritime routes connecting different regions around the world for the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures.