The age of exploration is the era primarily associated with significant global exploration by Europeans. This period, spanning from the late 15th century to the early 17th century, marked a time when European powers sought to expand their territories, trade routes, and influence across the globe. Pioneering explorers such as Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, and Ferdinand Magellan undertook voyages that resulted in the discovery of new lands and sea routes, fundamentally altering world geography and initiating cross-cultural interactions.
During this time, motivations included economic interests, the desire for new trade routes to Asia, the quest for wealth (particularly in spices and precious metals), and the spread of Christianity. The advancements in navigation technology, such as the astrolabe and improvements in shipbuilding, enabled longer voyages and more accurate navigation, facilitating this remarkable era of exploration.
In contrast, the medieval period is characterized by feudalism and localized economies, while the age of enlightenment is associated with intellectual and philosophical advancements rather than exploration. The industrial revolution, which occurred much later, focused on economic and technological transformation within societies, rather than the exploration of uncharted territories. Thus, the age of exploration is the distinct period that stands out for its emphasis on global exploration by Europeans.