The History of Colonialism

The History of Colonialism: Role of Explorations

The explorations, also known as the Voyages of Discovery, which took place at the end of the 15th century, played a pivotal role in the emergence of Colonialism. Here's how:

1. Early Discoveries: As early as the 13th century, figures like Marco Polo from Italy had made significant discoveries, including travels to China. These discoveries enhanced the allure of European ports and spurred merchant activities. Coastal towns like Venice and Genoa prospered as they were free from the constraints of the feudal system.
2. Shift to Money-based Society: Coastal towns were characterized by a monetary-based society rather than a land-based one. This transition was crucial as it allowed for greater freedom and mobility, particularly for serfs who flocked to these towns from the villages.
3. Royal Patronage: Kings, seeking to reduce their dependence on feudal lords for military support, supported the merchants in their explorations. In return, merchants aided the kings by providing them with new trade routes and access to valuable goods.
4. Monetary Gains from Exploration: The primary motive for exploration was monetary profit. Merchants sought goods in distant lands that could be sold at a substantial profit margin back home. The spice trade, in particular, was highly lucrative.
5. Venice's Dominance in Spice Trade: By the mid-13th century, Venice had emerged as the central trade port for spices. From there, these spices were transported to Western and Northern Europe. Venice's wealth soared as it levied significant tariffs on these transactions.
6. Geographical Significance: Geography played a crucial role. Without direct access to the Middle East, Europeans were compelled to pay high prices set by Venice. Even the affluent faced challenges affording spices. The trade routes, known as Silk Routes, were essential for this commerce.
7. Ottoman Empire's Blockade: In 1453, the Ottoman Empire defeated the Byzantine Empire, which had been another critical intermediary in this trade with the East. The Ottomans blocked the sea routes, prompting Europeans to embark on exploratory journeys in search of alternative routes.
8. Emergence of New Trade Routes: Envy of the prosperous Italian trading cities and the blockade imposed by the Ottoman Empire motivated sailors to seek alternative routes. This quest led to the discovery of new territories, including Canada by John Cabot of Britain.
9. Mapping the World: Through these explorations, the geographical map of the world gradually took shape.

These exploratory efforts were foundational to the subsequent era of colonialism, as they opened up new territories and trade routes that would become the focus of European colonial expansion.