Question

the late 1400s, China was the world leader in the production and export of goods such as silk, porcelain, tea, fruit, drugs, cotton, weapons, etc., which Europeans desired; however, Europe produced few products of interest to the Chinese. Why did this encourage the European exploration of the Americas? a. The Europeans hoped the Indians would extend them new lines of credit. b. There was a currency surplus in Europe, with vast reserves held by the ruling elite. c. It created a trade deficit, with Chinese imports vastly exceeding European exports, that caused European nations to seek sources of precious metals. d. It fostered a labor shortage, leading to a strong demand for slave labor.

Answer 1

C. It created a trade deficit, with Chinese imports vastly exceeding European exports, that caused European nations to seek sources of precious metals.

Step-by-step explanation:

Importing Chinese goods resulted in trade deficit as Europeans had no way of sustaining the trade until the hopes of precious metals in Americas encouraged exploration of the continent.