Second Sons

What was the main reason many explorers from Europe were not the oldest sons in their families?

• The oldest sons were not interested in exploring.

• The laws of primogeniture favored the oldest sons inheriting everything.

• The oldest sons were too busy managing their estates.

• The younger sons were more adventurous.

What does the term 'primogeniture' mean?

• The firstborn son inherits everything.

• The youngest child inherits the estate.

• All children inherit equally.

• The estate is divided among the sons.

Why did noble families in Europe prefer the system of primogeniture?

• To ensure all children were treated equally.

• To keep their lands and power consolidated.

• To encourage younger sons to explore.

• To prevent disputes among siblings.

What did younger sons and daughters typically receive under the system of primogeniture?

• A small portion of the estate.

• Nothing.

• Equal share as the oldest son.

• A title but no land.

Why did many second sons choose to become explorers in the 1400s and 1500s?

• They wanted to inherit their father's estate.

• They were forced by their families to leave.

• They sought to find new ways to make money and gain power.

• They were uninterested in family affairs.

1. What can we infer about the life of second sons based on the text?

• • They were very wealthy from the start

• • They often had to find new ways to make a fortune

• • They inherited land and estates

• • They were always the oldest in their families