Final answer:
Spain and Portugal were leaders in the Age of Exploration due to their geographical advantages, technological advancements, and desire to expand their territories.
Step-by-step explanation:
Spain and Portugal were the leaders of the Age of Exploration for several reasons. Firstly, their geographic locations on the Iberian Peninsula provided easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, making it convenient for sea trade and exploration.
Additionally, both countries had technological advancements, such as the compass, astrolabe, and caravel, which enabled them to navigate the open sea successfully. Through exploration and colonization, Spain and Portugal sought to expand their territories and increase their wealth and power.