European Exploration and Colonization

Front

Why did European nations explore the New World?

Back

God, Gold, Glory: spread Christianity, find wealth, and gain personal and national prestige (fame).

Front

What were the trade routes European nations sought?

Back

Find a faster way to get to Asian markets. (Northwest Passage)

Front

What was the competition among European nations about?

Back

European nations wanted to expand their empires. (gain more land and power)

Front

Why did European nations establish colonies in the New World?

Back

Economic: Colonies provided raw materials and new markets under the system of mercantilism.

Front

What was the religious motivation for establishing colonies?

Back

Groups like the Puritans and Catholics wanted religious freedom.

Front

What was the focus of Spanish colonization?

Back

Focused on spreading Catholicism, extracting wealth like gold, and using missions to control Native Americans.

Front

What was the focus of French colonization?

Back

Focused on the fur trade

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What characterized English colonization?

Back

Permanent settlements, self-governance, religious freedom; expanded onto Native American lands.

Front

What was the economic system used by European colonial powers?

Back

Mercantilism: colonies provided raw materials to the mother country and served as markets for finished goods.

Front

What role did religion play in colonization?

Back

Religion motivated groups like the Pilgrims and Puritans to seek religious freedom in the New World, influencing the culture and governance of some colonies.