Expansion

Global Expansion and Colonisation

• The Early Modern era known as the Age of Discovery, was a critical period in terms of geographical exploration and global expansion.
• Significant maritime nations during this period included Spain, Portugal, France, Britain and the Netherlands.
• These nations embarked on seafaring expeditions, which led to the establishment of colonies in the Americas, Africa, and Asia.
• This age of exploration and colonisation was largely driven by a quest for new trade routes, wealth, resources, and the desire to spread Christianity.

Impact on Native Peoples

• Colonisation had profound effects on native peoples and societies in areas such as the Americas, Africa, and Asia.
• Colonisation often resulted in violence, the spread of diseases, and the destruction of indigenous cultures and societies.
• There was vast exploitation of local resources and forced labour, particularly in the South American colonies which were rich in silver, gold, and other valuable resources.
• One of the darkest periods of this era was the Atlantic Slave Trade, during which millions of Africans were forcibly taken to work in the colonies.

Influence on Home Nations

• The colonies provided home nations with raw materials and markets resulting in economic prosperity in Europe.
• This led to the rise of mercantilism, and the belief that colonies existed for the benefit of the mother country.
• The vast wealth and power gained from overseas ventures caused a shift in the balance of power within Europe, with nations like Britain and France emerging as great powers.
• This era also led to the cultural exchange of ideas, foods, technology, and more, which impacted social and economic elements of the home nations.

Remember to delve further into each point and understand the implications on both colonised and coloniser during this age of Global Expansion. Incorporate critical analysis of impacts on societies, important historical figures, and events into your revision.