What were the three primary motivations for exploration during the Age of Discovery?

Prepare for your Advanced World History Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Ensure your success on the exam!

The chosen answer, "Gold, God, and Glory," encapsulates the primary motivations driving European exploration during the Age of Discovery from the 15th to the 17th centuries.

"Gold" refers to the quest for wealth, specifically through the accumulation of precious metals and the establishment of lucrative trade routes. European nations were eager to find new sources of gold and silver, as well as spices and other valuable commodities. The promise of economic gain was a significant motivator for explorers and their sponsors.

"God" pertains to the religious aspect of exploration, particularly the desire to spread Christianity. Many explorers and their patrons saw it as a duty to convert indigenous populations to Christianity, which was often framed as a moral obligation. This goal was especially prominent during the Spanish conquests in the Americas.

"Glory" reflects the nationalistic pride and personal fame associated with exploration. Explorers sought to bring prestige to their countries and themselves through discoveries of new lands. Success in exploration was often seen as a way for nations to demonstrate their power and for individuals to gain honor and recognition.

The other options, while containing relevant elements related to exploration, do not fully capture the core motivations of the era. Land, labor, and resources focus more on the practical

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