Final answer:
The greatest motivator for European colonization in the New World was the pursuit of wealth, bolstered by the economic theory of mercantilism and the desire for national glory.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the great powers of Europe, the greatest motivator for colonization in the New World was the pursuit of wealth, national glory, and mercantilism. European nations were driven by the desire to find new resources and secure economic power through colonization. The concept of mercantilism, which suggested that a nation's power depended on its wealth, further spurred European states to acquire colonies and tap into the immense riches they believed the New World held.
The Spanish and Portuguese successes in the Americas showed that colonies could become sources of great treasure, such as gold and silver, fostering a competitive environment among European powers. Countries like England, France, and the Netherlands followed suit, establishing their own colonies to extract resources, spread their influence, and enhance their standing in the international arena.
Moreover, religious strife and the ambitions of monarchs to extend their domains and control over new territories contributed to the European colonial expansion, leading to a significant impact on indigenous populations and global geopolitics.