european explorers began looking east because of the fortunes that could be made with trade. A consequence of exploring down the African coast was that it started slave trade The European explorers began looking east because merchants were looking for a chance to expand their trade and wealth. Kings were looking for power and glory. Merchants made fortunes bringing spices and other goods from Asia and North Africa. Italians controlled trade and Europeans were interested in expanding in trade
One of the negative consequences of prince Henry the navigator was his journeys began the practice of trade in slaves. Ships would return to port with African captives and the practice grew rapidly