Why Europe Explored the World

11th GradeSocial Studies40 min

aligned to Ap Modern World

Learning Objective

I can identify the political, economic, and social factors that drove European exploration from 1450 to 1750.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

7 min

EUROPEAN Exploration [AP World History Review] Unit 4 Topic 2

Heimler's History

Guided Notes

8 min

Key concepts students will learn:

  • States sponsored maritime exploration from 1450-1750 due to gold, God, and glory.

  • The Portuguese established a trading-post empire by claiming small amounts of land at strategic locations to create a monopoly over the spice trade.

  • The Spanish sponsored Christopher Columbus to find a new westward route to Asia and to look for gold and silver.

Practice

12 min

7 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

Name one political, one economic, and one social reason that drove European states to sponsor maritime exploration between 1450 and 1750.

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts