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What were the British reasons for exploration?

What were the British reasons for exploration?

While individual motives for exploration were mixed, the main impetus was economic—the search for riches. The English were not interested in discovery for its own sake, but sought the opportunities for trade that were opened up by new markets and new routes to existing markets.

Why did the British Explore America?

◦ England wanted to start an American colony to increase their wealth and power so that they could compete with other European countries like Spain and France. ◦ They were hoping to be able to find silver and gold in America.

What was the British exploration?

England’s forays into the New World began in 1497 (just a few years after Columbus’ initial voyage) with John Cabot’s journey to North America. British exploration of the New World centered on searching for a northwest passage through the continent. Cabot’s ships departed, never to be seen again.

Why did Great Britain want to explore the New World?

Freedom of faith was a big motivation for the English. In 1620, a group of settlers left England to seek the New World. Many were separatists, who believed the Church of England was dishonorable. By seeking out the New World, they were trying to break away and worship their own faith.

Where did Great Britain explore?

The English also established or conquered several colonies in the Caribbean, including Barbados and Jamaica. England captured the Dutch colony of New Netherland in the Anglo-Dutch Wars of the mid-17th century, leaving North America divided amongst the English, Spanish, and French empires.

Who was the first British explorer to explore the New World?

England’s forays into the New World began in 1497 with John Cabot’s journey to North America. British exploration of the New World centered on searching for a Northwest Passage through the continent. Sir Walter Raleigh and Henry Hudson were notable British explorers who established early settlements in Virginia…

What did the explorers do during the age of exploration?

Other important voyages of exploration during this era included Ferdinand Magellan’s attempted circumnavigation of the globe, the search for a trade route to Asia through the Northwest Passage, and Captain James Cook’s voyages that allowed him to map various areas and travel as far as Alaska.

Where did Britain focus its attention in the 19th century?

British attention soon turned towards Asia, Africa, and the Pacific. After the defeat of France in the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars (1792–1815), Britain emerged as the principal naval and imperial power of the 19th century.

What was the exploration and conquest of the New World?

The Exploration and Conquest of the New World 1 Exploration and Conquest of the New World. Initial voyages to the New World by Columbus spurred an era of exploration and invasion by other European empires. 2 Disease in the New World. 3 European Empires in North America