Final answer:
The primary motives for European exploration of the Americas were to increase wealth and to spread Christianity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary motives for European exploration of the Americas were to increase wealth and to spread Christianity.
European powers, such as Spain and Portugal, sought to find new trade routes and sources of wealth in order to boost their national wealth. They were lured by the potential for gold and other valuable resources in the Americas. This economic motive drove their exploration and colonization efforts.
In addition, religious zeal also motivated the European powers to spread Christianity. Catholic nations like Spain and Portugal saw the exploration of the Americas as an opportunity to convert indigenous peoples and counter the influence of Islam. They viewed it as their duty to bring souls to the Christian faith.