England

Definition

England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom, located on the island of Great Britain. During the Age of Exploration, England emerged as a major maritime power, driven by its ambitions for trade, colonization, and competition with other European nations. This period marked the beginning of England's extensive overseas expansion, leading to the establishment of colonies and the formation of a vast empire.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the late 15th century, England began to seek new trade routes and territories, culminating in voyages led by explorers such as John Cabot.
2. The defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588 marked a turning point for England, establishing it as a formidable naval power and boosting its confidence in overseas expansion.
3. The establishment of colonies in North America during the early 17th century, like Jamestown in 1607, marked the beginning of significant English settlement abroad.
4. The Triangular Trade emerged during this period, with England participating in trade involving enslaved people from Africa, raw materials from the Americas, and manufactured goods from England.
5. By the end of the Age of Exploration, England had laid the groundwork for its later status as one of the world's largest empires.

Review Questions

• How did England's naval power contribute to its ambitions during the Age of Exploration?
  • England's naval power was crucial for its ambitions during the Age of Exploration because it allowed for safe passage across oceans and protected trade routes. The strengthening of the navy after defeating the Spanish Armada enabled England to engage in exploration and establish colonies. This maritime dominance facilitated the expansion of trade networks and military presence abroad, paving the way for England's emergence as a major global power.
• Discuss how mercantilism influenced England's approach to colonization and trade during this period.
  • Mercantilism greatly influenced England's approach to colonization and trade by promoting the idea that national strength was directly linked to economic wealth. As a result, England sought to establish colonies that would supply raw materials for English industries while providing markets for English goods. This economic philosophy drove England to expand its territory overseas, leading to fierce competition with other European powers for control over resources and trade routes.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of England's exploration and colonization efforts on global trade dynamics.
  • England's exploration and colonization efforts had profound long-term impacts on global trade dynamics by establishing trade networks that interconnected Europe, Africa, and the Americas. The introduction of goods such as tobacco, sugar, and cotton from American colonies transformed economies on both sides of the Atlantic. Additionally, these efforts contributed to significant cultural exchanges and shaped modern economic systems, setting the stage for globalization and influencing social structures worldwide.

Related terms

British Empire: A global empire that encompassed various territories across the world, established by England through colonization and trade from the 16th to the 20th century.

East India Company: A trading company formed in 1600 that played a crucial role in the expansion of English trade and influence in Asia, particularly in India.

Mercantilism: An economic theory that emphasizes the role of government in promoting exports and accumulating wealth through trade, which influenced England's colonial policies.