Final answer:
New sailing ships like the caravel and carrack, facilitated greater overseas exploration by being more maneuverable and capable of longer voyages. They also incorporated navigational improvements like the sternpost rudder and compass. This enabled Europeans to discover new trade routes and territories, shifting the focus from land to maritime empires.
Step-by-step explanation:
The introduction of new types of sailing ships, such as the caravel and the carrack, significantly impacted overseas exploration during the Age of Discovery. Caravels, with their smaller, highly maneuverable design and the ability to sail into the wind using a lateen sail, were optimal for exploration. Carracks, on the other hand, were larger and capable of carrying more cargo, making them suitable for longer voyages. Both designs incorporated advanced technology like the sternpost rudder for steering, and the combination of square and lateen sails allowed for sailing in various wind conditions. Moreover, the use of navigational tools like the magnetic compass and astrolabe, enabled explorers to journey further into the open ocean with greater confidence.
These technological advancements in navigation allowed European powers to explore and establish routes to the Americas, Africa, and Asia. This led to the extensive exploration and subsequent colonization, reflecting a significant shift from land-based to ocean-based empires, expanding global trade networks, and altering the course of history. The use of these vessels allowed Europeans to bypass overland Silk Road routes, finding faster ways to access luxury goods from the East and dramatically changing socio-economic dynamics worldwide.