Final answer:
Between the 8th and 15th centuries, significant improvements in ship design and navigation occurred, including the development of compass navigation, the introduction of caravels with enhanced maneuverability, and the creation of more accurate maps and charts. These advancements allowed Europeans to sail beyond coastlines and embark on expansive oceanic voyages, facilitating the Age of Exploration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The improvements in ship design and navigation that occurred between the 8th-15th centuries include Development of compass navigation (A), Introduction of caravels (B), and Improved maps and charts (C). Therefore, the answer is D. All of the above. The innovations during this period were substantial and played a pivotal role in the Age of Exploration.
The lateen sail from the Arab world allowed ships to sail against the wind, greatly enhancing maneuverability. The combination of lateen and square sails enabled navigation in any direction. The sternpost rudder, which originated in China, also improved steering capabilities against strong currents. The magnetic compass, another Chinese invention, along with the improved astrolabe, which was refined in the Middle East, allowed European sailors to navigate without relying on the coastline. These developments led to bolder oceanic expeditions, including those that discovered new lands.
Regarding ship design, the caravel was a significant innovation with a larger hull, the ability to carry more provisions, and improved maneuverability due to a rudder placed at the back of the ship. Such design made the caravel essential for explorers, as it could undertake longer voyages and explorers could discover lands previously unknown to Europeans. The carrack was another type of vessel that carried substantial cargo and was stable on long oceanic voyages, exemplified by Columbus's voyages to the New World.
Together, technological advancements in sailing and navigation during this period revolutionized maritime travel, setting the stage for subsequent global exploration, trade, and colonization activities spearheaded by European nations such as Portugal and Spain.