Portuguese and Spanish Maritime Exploration (15th-16th Centuries)
Portuguese Maritime Exploration
From the mid-15th century, the Portuguese prince, Henry the Navigator, encouraged the development of navigation skills and the exploration of the African coast. Portugal’s aim was to gain access to Sudan’s gold supplies and trade with India. Initially, there was competition with Castile in this region, but it was resolved with the signing of the Treaty of Alcáçovas in 1479. The treaty granted Castile the right to conquer the Canary Islands, while Portugal was allowed
Read MoreIndustrial Revolution in Britain: Causes and Impacts
The Industrial Revolution in Britain (1780-1860)
The Industrial Revolution, a pivotal period of transformation from an agrarian to an industrialized economy, occurred in Britain between 1780 and 1860. This shift propelled Great Britain to become a global leader in industry and finance.
Causes of the Industrial Revolution in England
By the late 18th century, England (home to 59 million people since then) had a population of 9 million. A decline in mortality, coupled with increased farm production and
Read MoreRainforests, Savannas, Coniferous Forests: Climates & Human Impact
Tropical Rainforest
Tropical rainforests have an equatorial climate, with temperatures around 25ºC year-round and rainfall exceeding 3000mm annually. A constant growing season exists.
- Location: Regions with an equatorial climate.
- Vegetation: Trees have adapted to this climate by growing very tall to reach sunlight. They have an evergreen appearance, and leaves feature drip tips to shed excess rainfall.
Rivers flood for several months each year, and both soils and floods have adapted to the climate.
Read MoreAgricultural Transformation: From Subsistence to Market Economy
From Traditional Agriculture to Market Agriculture
From Subsistence Economy to Market Economy: In the nineteenth century, agriculture underwent a series of significant changes. The introduction of new crops and agricultural machinery led to:
- An increase in food production, which allowed for feeding a growing population, especially in urban areas. This enabled a large proportion of the population, who had previously worked in agriculture, to move to cities and work in industry.
- The process of industrialization
Christopher Columbus’ Voyages and Spanish Colonization
Christopher Columbus’ Vision and Initial Voyage
Christopher Columbus was an experienced sailor familiar with the African routes established by Portugal. He was also familiar with the theories of Toscanelli, who believed the Earth was spherical. Columbus formulated a plan to find a new route to Asia by sailing west, avoiding Africa.
Columbus presented his theory to the King of Portugal in 1482, but a committee of experts rejected it. He then took his idea to Castilla, explaining his plan to the Catholic
Read MoreSpanish Demographic and Economic Shifts (1877-1930)
Demographic Change in Spain (1877-1930)
The Demographic Transition
The demographic transition was a phenomenon common to all countries that underwent industrialization. It was characterized by falling birth rates and mortality rates. Between 1877 and 1930, mortality decreased due to improved feeding, urban infrastructure, lower incidence of disease, and greater cleanliness and hygiene. Average life expectancy increased.
Birth rates also increased as a result of increased urbanization and rationality
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