Explorers of the 15th Century Quiz

Who was the first major figure of the 15th century when it comes to ocean-going voyages?

• Marco Polo

• Vasco da Gama

• Zheng He

• Christopher Columbus

What was the primary motivation behind Zheng He's voyages in the Indian Ocean?

• To establish trade routes for China

• To spread Christianity

• To search for gold and spices

• To reach out to other countries to improve China's prestige and respect

What advantage did Portuguese sailors have in exploration due to Prince Henry the Navigator's efforts?

• Support from the Spanish monarchy

• Exclusive trade agreements with Asian empires

• Knowledge of nautical navigation

• Access to advanced weaponry

What was the strategy used by the Portuguese to control trade in the Indian Ocean?

• Establishing large colonies in the region

• Building a network of military outposts

• Forcing merchants to purchase trade permits

• Forming alliances with local rulers

What did Columbus primarily promise to Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain in order to fund his expedition?

• Discovery of new trade routes to Asia

• Exploration of the African coast

• Establishment of Spanish colonies in the Caribbean

• Riches and conversions of the natives

What was the lasting impact of Columbus's voyages on the world?

• Introduction of new agricultural techniques to the Americas

• Spread of diseases and exploitation of native populations

• Establishment of peaceful trade relations with the indigenous people

• Promotion of cultural exchange and mutual understanding

What was the primary reason for the end of Zheng He's voyages in the Indian Ocean?

• Lack of interest from foreign rulers

• Death of the Chinese emperor

• Conflict with other Asian empires

• Failure to find valuable trade goods

What did the Portuguese create in the Indian Ocean as a result of their successful expeditions?

• Alliances with powerful Asian empires

• Large colonies with significant populations

• A network of military fortresses

• A trading post empire

What was the primary motivation behind Vasco da Gama's exploration of the Indian Ocean?

• To find a path to the New World

• To gain access to the lucrative spice trade

• To locate the mythical kingdom of Prester John

• To establish diplomatic relations with Asian empires

What did the Line of Demarcation, established by Pope Alexander VI, divide between Spain and Portugal?

• The control of the Mediterranean Sea

• The territories in the New World

• The world into two parts for exploration

• The trade routes to the Far East