How and Why The Great Age of Exploration Began.

The Effect of the Columbus Voyage:

1. Begins the Columbian Exchange the movement of living things between the western and eastern hemispheres. You are here because of it!

2. Begins the destruction of Native peoples and cultures -Guns, Germs, and Steel Vs. Obsidian and Stone

3. Sets events on a course which lead to the founding, one day much later, of the United States of America.

HOW DID ALL OF THIS BEGIN?

3 Important events needed to take place 1. The Decline of Feudalism and the Revival and Growth of Towns and Trade 2. The Crusades and the importance Trade with the East. 3. The Renaissance and Reformation

The Fall of Rome

1. The Decline of Feudalism and the Revival of Towns and Trade!

The Middle Ages 500 to 1500 (500-1000 known as the Dark Ages) Over time Feudalism led to a certain amount of stability returning to Europe. This in turn led to a number of things: Farmers______________________________ More to Eat___________________________ More people = more demand = ___________ Merchants ____________________________ Money _______________________________ Old Towns ____________________________

2. The Crusades and the importance of Trade with the East. The Crusades were wars between European Christendom and Muslim peoples over the Holy Lands. They were wars of religion. They began with the 1st Crusade in 1096 and will last almost 200 years. The Crusades were important in helping set the stage for the Great Age of Exploration for three reasons: a. It helps Europe turn the corner and bring an end to the Dark Ages. b. Much knowledge is brought back to Europe that will spur the start of the Renaissance . c. Europeans are exposed to eastern trade goods and will continue to desire these goods even after the Crusades end.

Trade with the Far East

The Renaissance!

The Renaissance helps bring the Great Age of Exploration! What does the word Renaissance mean? What important part does the Renaissance play in helping bring the Great Age of Exploration? a. Knowledge from the middle and far east helps begin the Renaissance (brought back from the Crusades) b. Renewed interest in learning and a growing curiosity about the world starts. c. Subjects like Math, Astronomy, Geography, and Navigation will be essential for long distance sea travel d. New inventions the Caravel, the Astrolabe will help make sea travel possible