Europeans had many reasons to risk their live in a really long voyage across the Atlantic Ocean. Many new technological advancements such as the cannons, new ships, magnetic compass and the astrolabe- helped make the trip something possible. Eventually Captains didn’t have the money to afford this. So they had to appeal to kings to sponsor their trip.
To get the Monarch’s sponsorship of the trip Captains had to somehow appeal to him the idea is worth while. So they had to come up with motives. The ottomans had taken part of practically all the border of East Europe with Asia impeding trade. This meant they had to find an alternative trade route. What they tried then is to go west and find India. There major profits from trading with India were spices… This is what they wanted to from India and also found in America. Spices added flavour and variety to their foods and served as preparation for medicines. Portugal took the lead in the Spice Trade with Prince Henry as a massive sponsor of voyages.
Europeans wanted to spread religion. This wasn’t the most important reason for the majority. Although for some Kings such as Queen Isabella it was a really important reason. The desire to Christianize Muslims after their attempt to unite Europe under one religion with the 30 years war… The most important reason for European Expansion was clearly wealth. This has been the reason under every movement, war or law made in history. It brought you money and power Spain had under his control more land than any other country except possibly Portugal. Money, material wealth and Trade were the key. Then came the rivalry between the Countries if Portugal came from an expedition with 2 new countries discovered, lots of gold… Then Spain would go in search of 2 bigger countries with more wealth. The Dutch also took part in some expeditions; and created the Dutch East Indian Company which controlled big part of European’s economy.