Seaborne Commerce

Definition

Seaborne commerce refers to the trade and transportation of goods by sea. During the Age of Exploration, it became significant for European powers because it allowed them to establish lucrative trade routes, expand their wealth and influence, and gain access to valuable resources from around the world.

Related terms

Colonization: The process by which a country establishes settlements or colonies in foreign territories with the aim of gaining political control, extracting resources, and expanding its influence.

Mercantilism: An economic system that emphasized government regulation of international trade in order to maximize exports and accumulate wealth through favorable balances of trade.

Triangular Trade: A three-way trading system during the Age of Exploration between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. It involved the exchange of goods (including slaves) among these regions.