Final answer:
In the given context, 'ventures' means new and often risky activities, projects, or businesses undertaken for profit or expansion.
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on its context in the paragraph under the heading “Need for Resources Drives Further Expansion,” the word ventures refers to new activities, projects, or businesses, typically involving some risk. When countries or companies look to expand for resources, they engage in various ventures with the hope of gaining profit or access to new markets. For example, in the context of colonial expansion, European countries undertook many overseas ventures in order to secure valuable resources like spices, gold, and other goods to enhance their wealth and power.