Question

Which key factor fueled competition between European countries for colonies in the Americas?

A) a european shortage of pepper and nutmeg
B) a mandate of papcy
C) the desire to control sources of gold and silver
D) the need to secre laboreres for factories in Europe

Answer 1

The desire to control sources of gold and silver fueled competition among European countries for colonies in the Americas, as these precious metals were crucial for national wealth and prestige under the mercantilist system.

Step-by-step explanation:

The pivotal factor that propelled competition among European nations for colonies in the Americas was C) the desire to control sources of gold and silver. The Rise of Mercantilism and a pressing need to boost national wealth drove these explorations and subsequent colonization efforts. In pursuit of wealth and national prestige, European states were eager to find direct access to precious resources, thus avoiding the need to trade through intermediaries such as the Muslims who controlled the spice trade after the fall of Constantinople. Gold and silver became particularly enticing resources, symbolizing wealth and enhancing the country's international standing and monetary strength.

The success of Spain and Portugal in acquiring vast wealth from their colonies encouraged other European powers like the English, French, and Dutch to establish their own settlements in the New World. Colonies under the mercantilist system were seen as crucial sources of raw materials and, consequently, as vital components of a thriving empire. Over time, these colonial efforts led to intense imperial rivalries, as each country strove to outdo the other in amassing resources and wealth from the Americas.

Answer 2

The key factor which fueled competition between European countries for colonies in the Americas was C) the desire to control sources of gold and silver. Although Europe did have certain resources, it had definitely depleted itself in gold and silver and there was a sort of race between the big European super powers to enrich themselves as much as they could. This can be especially seen with the silver mines in Mexico which both the Spanish and the French wanted to acquire.