Lecture: Trans-Oceanic Interconnectedness (1450-1750)

Introduction

• Focus on trans-oceanic interconnectedness from 1450-1750, same period as land-based empires.
• Topics covered: European exploration, innovations, causes, and events.

European Exploration: Causes

1. Technological Inventions

• Transmission of Inventions:
  • Originated from Islamic world, East Asia, Classical period.
  • Reached Europe due to Mongol invasions and increased trade.
• Key Inventions:
  • Latin sail (Byzantine/Islamic origin), compass, astrolabe, printing press, map making.
  • Enabled European exploration.
• Ship Examples:
  • Caravelle: Spanish/Portuguese ships using Latin sails.
  • Fluyt: Dutch trade-focused ship with enhanced cargo capacity.
• Understanding Winds:
  • Navigating Atlantic winds crucial for exploration.

2. State-Sponsored Exploration

• Government Support:
  • Sponsorship of explorers and maritime schools.
  • Investment in maritime technology and mapmaking.
• Leading Nations:
  • Portugal and Spain:
    • Prime location on the Iberian Peninsula.
    • Creation of navigation schools, astronomical observatories.
    • Focus on bypassing Ottoman-controlled trade routes through Africa.
  • Religious Motivation:
    • Spain's Reconquista and Spanish Inquisition targeting non-Catholics.
    • Treaty of Tordesillas to divide New World territories between Spain and Portugal.

3. Religious Reformation

• Protestant Reformation:
  • Protest against Catholic Church practices like indulgences.
  • Martin Luther’s 95 Theses sparking reform movements.
• Impact on Exploration:
  • Protestants fleeing persecution to establish new colonies.
  • Example: Puritans migrating to North America.

Key Events and Outcomes

• European Expansion:
  • Creation of global empires by Spain and Portugal.
  • Prominent explorers like Christopher Columbus.
• Religious Influence:
  • Catholic missions to convert indigenous populations.

Conclusion

• Next Steps:
  • Further exploration of conquest impacts and treatment of indigenous peoples.
• Note: Write down questions for further clarification.