Question 1: During the 15th and 16th centuries, European powers, including Britain, began exploring new sea routes and lands. This era of exploration was driven by the desire for new trade routes, wealth, and territorial expansion. Key figures such as John Cabot and Sir Francis Drake played significant roles. The exploration led to increased trade and the eventual establishment of the British Empire.

Answer: The period was marked by European exploration to find new trade routes, driven by economic and territorial ambitions, with explorers like Cabot and Drake leading the way, which resulted in expanded trade and empire-building.

Question 1: When did John Cabot successfully sail to North America?

Answer: 1497

Question 2: Name one explorer associated with circumnavigating the globe.

Answer: Sir Francis Drake

Question 3: What was the main goal of European explorers during the Age of Exploration?

Answer: To find new trade routes, claim new lands, and expand their nations' wealth and power.

Question 4: Which country was the first to establish a sea route to India?

Answer: Portugal

Question 5: Describe briefly the significance of the Treaty of Tordesillas (1494).

Answer: It divided newly discovered lands outside Europe between Spain and Portugal, influencing exploration and colonial claims.

Question 1: Source: 'The sea route to India will open up new wealth for England and establish its naval dominance.' — 17th-century merchant. What was the purpose of this source?

Answer: To promote the idea that establishing sea routes would bring wealth and power to England.

Question 2: Who was the intended audience for this source?

Answer: English merchants and policymakers involved in trade and exploration.

Question 3: How reliable do you think this source is? Why?

Answer: It is a promotional statement likely biased to encourage exploration; therefore, it may exaggerate benefits but reflects contemporary aspirations.

Question 1: Explain why the search for new trade routes was a major motivation for European exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Answer: European nations sought new trade routes to access spices, silk, and other luxury goods directly, bypassing intermediaries. This aimed to increase wealth, establish colonies, and enhance national power, driven by competition among states.

Question 2: Describe how exploration impacted the British economy and empire-building.

Answer: Exploration led to new trade opportunities, the acquisition of colonies, and increased wealth. It established Britain as a major naval and commercial power, laying the groundwork for the later expansion of the British Empire.

Question 3: Explain the significance of the defeat of the Spanish Armada (1588) in the context of exploration and trade.

Answer: The defeat marked England's rise as a naval power, enabling it to protect its trade routes and colonies, and paving the way for future exploration and expansion of the British Empire.

Question 1: To what extent did exploration contribute to the growth of the British Empire?

Answer: Exploration was a key factor in the growth of the British Empire as it opened new trade routes, led to colonization, and increased wealth and power. It allowed Britain to establish strategic naval bases and expand its influence globally. However, other factors such as military strength, diplomacy, and economic policies also played roles. Overall, exploration was a crucial catalyst in Britain becoming a major imperial power.