Final answer:
The most important explorers of the 15th and 16th century are listed by country. Examples of explorers include Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, and John Cabot. Their motivations ranged from finding a trade route to Asia to seeking wealth and new territories.
Step-by-step explanation:
Spain:
- Christopher Columbus: Explored the Americas and found the Caribbean islands, Central and South America. He went on these voyages to find a faster trade route to Asia and to spread Christianity.
- Hernán Cortés: Explored and conquered Mexico, specifically the Aztec Empire. He sought gold and other riches.
- Francisco Pizarro: Explored and conquered Peru, particularly the Inca Empire. He was motivated by the search for gold and silver.
England:
- John Cabot: Explored North America, specifically the eastern coast of Canada. He was searching for a northwest passage to Asia.
- Francis Drake: Explored Central and South America, including circumnavigating the globe. He sought riches and to disrupt Spanish shipping.
France:
- Giovanni da Verrazzano: Explored North America, particularly the eastern coast of the present-day United States. He was searching for a northwest passage to Asia.
Portugal:
- Vasco da Gama: Explored the Indian Ocean, specifically establishing a route from Europe to India. He aimed to bypass Muslim traders and gain direct access to Asian goods.
Netherlands:
- Willem Barentsz: Explored the Arctic region, specifically searching for a northeast passage to Asia.
- Henry Hudson: Explored North America, including the Hudson River and Hudson Bay. He sought a northwest passage to Asia and new trade routes.
Denmark:
- Christian IV: Sponsored various explorations, including those led by Jens Munk to Arctic regions in search of the Northwest Passage.