Many civilizations were motivated by wealth or depleted resources. Most hoped that by colonizing new areas that they would find gold, other precious gems, or valuable spices. This would help their countries to flourish because of added monetary gain. Civilizations were also motivated by the political gains. They would be seen as more powerful the more land that they were able to conquer. Other colonies took the risk of colonizing new territories to spread their religion or to be able to have the freedom to worship the way they wished to.