Age of Exploration

The Age of Exploration occurred after the Crusades as people moved on from constant warfare during the Medieval period and the conflict towards the Muslims and Christians. As Christians settled in greater parts of the world such as the Middle East, they began to be intrigued of what else was in the unknown parts of the world. Several explorers agreed to descend unto 'new worlds'. These explorers included Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan. Christopher Columbus discovered the Americas and Magellan discovered parts of Asia.

A century before them, Admiral Zheng He's explorations from China to Southeast Asia, India, and Africa involved 30 000 men in his voyages.

The concept of exploration improved travel. The ships were improved and new navigational instruments were invented such as the astrolabe and maps were used.

At this time, new sea routes were invented and trade increased. Europe and the Middle East absorbed some of the culture which were discovered in the other parts of the world. Spices and plants were of trade. Tobacco was one of the new items which were delivered thoroughout the trading routes. This was the beginning of globalization and colonisation of the world.