Exploration and the Treaty of Tordesillas

In the late 15th century, Spain's King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella funded Columbus' voyage to find a western route to the Orient, challenging Portugal's maritime dominance. Columbus' discovery of the Americas strengthened Spain's position, leading to the Treaty of Tordesillas in 1494, which divided the world between Spain and Portugal. The treaty line favored Spain, causing tension with Portugal, which was resolved by adjusting the line westward. This division influenced language distribution in Latin America, with Brazil speaking Portuguese and other regions speaking Spanish. Despite the treaty, other European nations ignored it to expand their empires.

What was the primary goal of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella in supporting Columbus?

• To spread Christianity in Asia

• To establish a new trade route to Africa

• To find a western route to the Orient

• To conquer the Portuguese territories

What was the main purpose of the Treaty of Tordesillas?

• To establish a trade agreement between Spain and Portugal

• To create a new maritime law for European nations

• To divide the newly discovered lands between Spain and Portugal

• To end the war between Spain and Portugal

Which lands did Spain receive according to the original Treaty of Tordesillas?

• Lands east of the dividing line

• All of South America

• Lands west of the dividing line

• Only the Caribbean islands

Why was King John II of Portugal unhappy with the Treaty of Tordesillas?

• He wanted to include Africa in the treaty

• He was not consulted during the negotiations

• He believed the treaty favored Spain with richer lands

• He wanted to expand Portuguese territories in Asia

What was the outcome for Portugal after the Treaty of Tordesillas was adjusted?

• Portugal gained control over Brazil

• Portugal received more territories in Africa

• Portugal lost all its territories in South America

• Portugal was excluded from the Americas

What is a lasting impact of the Treaty of Tordesillas on South America?

• All South Americans speak Spanish

• Brazil speaks Portuguese while others speak Spanish

• Portuguese is the dominant language in South America

• Spanish is not spoken in Brazil

How did other European nations respond to the Treaty of Tordesillas?

• They sought approval from the Pope for their actions

• They formed an alliance with Spain and Portugal

• They ignored the treaty to expand their empires

• They strictly adhered to the treaty