Final answer:
Portugal and Spain explored new trade routes to tap into the Asian spice trade, bypass the Muslim intermediaries, enhance their economic wealth, and spread Christianity. The Portuguese started their exploration by sailing down the African coast while Spain, following Columbus's journey, looked westward. Their rivalry was settled by the Treaty of Tordesillas and the Treaty of Zaragosa, dividing the world's zones of influence between them.
Step-by-step explanation:
Portugal and Spain looked for new trade routes primarily to access the lucrative spice trade from Asia, which included commodities like cloves, pepper, and ginger. These goods were originally brought to European markets by Muslim traders through overland routes. By finding new sea routes, European nations like Portugal and Spain aimed to enrich themselves while simultaneously reducing the economic power of Muslim states and strengthening the Christian world. This economic incentive was paired with a religious goal to spread Christianity.
The Portuguese exploration began along the African coast, seeking to disrupt the trans-Saharan trade routes and establish a new oceanic path to Asia, and eventually, the Americas. Spain, following Columbus’s 1492 voyage, also embarked on exploration, seeking to establish new routes and territories. Their competition was later resolved by the Treaty of Tordesillas and the Treaty of Zaragosa, which divided the globe into zones of influence between the two nations.