Final answer:
In the thirteenth century, Europeans' interest in exploration and expansion in Asia and the Middle East was sparked by events such as the Crusades and the fall of the Mongol Empire, as well as economic factors including the desire for direct access to lucrative markets and competition between maritime nations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Events and Economic Factors that Sparked European Interest in Exploration and Expansion in Asia and the Middle East
In the thirteenth century, Europe experienced a series of events and economic factors that drove their curiosity and desire for exploration and expansion into Asia and the Middle East. One such event was the Crusades, which brought Europeans into direct contact with the rich cultures and trade routes of the Eastern world. The Crusaders brought back various goods and stories, stimulating interest and creating a demand for the exotic treasures of the East.
Additionally, the fall of the Mongol Empire in the thirteenth century resulted in a disruption of the established trade routes that connected Europe to Asia. As a result, Europeans sought new, direct connections to the lucrative markets of the East. This desire for alternative trade routes played a significant role in motivating European exploration and expansion.
The rise of powerful maritime nations, such as Portugal and Spain, also played a crucial role in fueling European interest in exploration. These nations competed for wealth, power, and resources, and sought to establish their dominance in the global trade network. As a result, they invested in technological advancements, such as improved shipbuilding techniques and navigation instruments, that enabled longer voyages and facilitated the exploration of unknown lands.
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