European explorers were interested in exploring the world as they sought to gain spices, which were extremely valuable in Europe, for trade. In such endeavours, they were largely motivated by profits. Competition in Europe for trade, power and prestige was similarly intense and this translated to other parts of the world, where a search for national glory ensured amongst explorers. European societies at that time were also intensely religious and increasingly found themselves being challenged by foreign religions, such as Islam, and within. Fearing the rise of Protestantism and the domination of Islam in large parts of the world, European explorers, under the purview of the Catholic Church, also sought to spread the teachings of the papacy. This was led by an increase in religious fervour to serve God.
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