Final answer:
The Age of Exploration was made possible by factors such as influence from the Middle East, the fall of Constantinople, technological advancements, motives for exploration, trade and economy, and religion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Age of Exploration was made possible by a combination of factors that opened up new opportunities for exploration and trade. Some of these factors include:
- Influence from the Middle East and North Africa: During the Middle Ages, Europeans made connections with people in the Middle East and North Africa, which influenced sailors, explorers, and shipbuilders.
- The fall of Constantinople: The fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans had a significant impact on the Age of Exploration. It made allies of Portugal and Spain, who then became partners in the exploration of the globe.
- Technological advancements: Innovators in navigation and exploration in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries pushed Europeans to expand their trade networks across the globe. Improved navigational technologies allowed sailors to sail out of sight of the European coast and detect and avoid storms at sea.
- Motives: Europeans had various motivations for exploration, including the desire to establish new trade routes, spread their religion, establish new markets, and escape political and economic hardships at home.
- Trade and economy: Trade and the economy played a significant role in shaping the participation of different groups or nations in the Age of Exploration. Nations with strong economies were able to fund expeditions and establish colonies in new territories.
- Religion: Religion also played a role in determining the actions of nations during the Age of Exploration. European countries sought to spread Christianity and convert indigenous peoples.