Final answer:
The primary global factors contributing to Spain's fifteenth-century exploration overseas include geopolitical rivalry with other European nations, the economic theory of mercantilism, and the ambition to spread Catholicism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The global factors that led Spain to be one of the first European powers of the fifteenth century to venture westward relates to geopolitical rivalry, mercantilism, and religious expansionism. Spain's entry into the Age of Discovery was spurred by its geopolitical rivalry with Portugal. Spain hoped to gain an advantage over Portugal and other European powers by exploring new territories and establishing colonies overseas.
Another important factor was the economic theory of mercantilism. Spain, like other European powers, desired to boost their national wealth. Christopher Columbus' exploration was largely funded due to the perception of potential wealth and resources that could be found in newly discovered territories. The desire to open up new trade routes and exploit the resources of these new lands also played a crucial role.
Moreover, there was a strong religious element to Spain's exploration. During the fifteenth century, Spain was predominantly Catholic and was engaged in a religious campaign against Islam, known as the Reconquista. With the completion of the Reconquista, Spain saw overseas exploration as an opportunity to expand Catholicism and combat the spread of Islam.
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