What was the primary economic motivation for European exploration in the Americas?

The primary economic motivation for European exploration in the Americas was the pursuit of new trade routes and resources, particularly gold and spices. During the late 15th and early 16th centuries, European nations like Spain and Portugal were eager to expand their wealth and power through trade. The lucrative spice trade in the East Indies was a significant driving force; spices were highly sought after in Europe for their use in preserving food and enhancing flavors.

Additionally, the discovery of gold and other precious resources in the New World offered immense potential for profit. The quest for wealth was central to the exploration efforts, with explorers like Columbus and Cortés motivated by the prospect of finding riches that would enrich their home countries and themselves.

While the spread of Christianity and establishing diplomatic relations with Native Americans were part of the overall context of exploration, they were not the primary economic reasons for the voyages undertaken by European powers. The focus on trade and resources highlights the economic ambitions that drove European nations to explore and colonize the Americas, reshaping global trade patterns and leading to significant historical consequences.