Final answer:
The development of the compass was a turning point in world history as it revolutionized navigation, enabled exploration and trade, and influenced the expansion of empires.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Development of the Compass as a Turning Point in World History
The development of the compass can be considered a significant turning point in world history due to its influence on exploration, trade, and navigation. Prior to the compass, sailors relied on less accurate methods, such as celestial navigation or dead reckoning, which limited their ability to navigate accurately over long distances. The compass revolutionized navigation by allowing sailors to determine their direction more precisely, enabling them to explore new lands and establish trade routes.
For example, during the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries, European explorers like Christopher Columbus and Vasco da Gama used the compass to guide their journeys across the oceans. This led to the discovery of new lands and the establishment of extensive trade networks that connected cultures and transformed the global economy.
The compass also played a significant role in shaping the history of empires, as it provided a technological advantage to seafaring nations. The ability to navigate accurately gave countries like Portugal, Spain, and England a strategic edge in expanding their territories and establishing colonial empires.