Table of Contents
What were most explorers looking for in North America?
The Desire for New Trade Routes European explorers found the New World by mistake; they were not looking to find new continents but new sea routes. Europeans mainly wanted to find better trade routes to China, India, and Southeast Asia.
What were French explorers searching for when they came to North America?
The French first came to the New World as explorers, seeking a route to the Pacific Ocean and wealth. Major French exploration of North America began under the rule of Francis I of France.
What did early European explorers searched North America’s coast for?
European explorers searched in vain for the Northwest Passage, a waterway that would allow them to sail through North America to Asia. This would be a shorter, more direct route to Asia. Columbus reaches the Americas for the first time. Amerigo Vespucci sails along South American coast, realizes it is a continent.
What were French and English explorers looking for in North America?
Gold, silver, and furs attracted European exploration, colonization, and competition in the New World. Rivalries between European nations were often rooted in religious or political feuds taking place in Europe, yet these tensions played out in the theater of the New World.
What were they exploring during the age of exploration?
The Age of Exploration began in the nation of Portugal under the leadership of Henry the Navigator. Henry sent out ships to map and explore the west coast of Africa. They went further south than any previous European expedition and mapped much of western Africa for the Portuguese.
Why did the English explore and colonize North America?
◦ England wanted to start an American colony to increase their wealth and power so that they could compete with other European countries like Spain and France. ◦ They were hoping to be able to find silver and gold in America.