These types of explorers include the men who raced to be the first to the North and South Poles, the top of Mount Everest, and to the Moon. Countries like Spain, Portugal, and Great Britain amassed huge empires during the Age of Exploration.Ĭhallenge - Many explorers want to test their personal limits and be the first in the world to do something.

Land - Many explorers claimed the land they found in the name of their country. They may be hoping to find a new species of animal or type of plant. Science - In many cases, explorers are scientists hoping to learn about nature and new parts of the world. The Conquistadors were primarily searching for gold and silver when they conquered the Native Americans of the New World. Gold - Often explorers have been in search of riches and treasure. This was the case of Vasco da Gama and Christopher Columbus. In some cases they hope to find new trade routes that would help them to transport goods cheaper than their competitors. Trade - Many countries and rulers funded explorers in order to find new trade partners and goods. Most explorers certainly like the adventure of going to a new place, meeting new peoples and cultures, or taking on new challenges. The reasons for exploration can vary widely. Sometimes it is called the Age of Discovery.

During this time much of the world was mapped and many world civilizations came into contact with each other. During this time many countries in Europe sent out explorers to discover new lands, find trade routes, seek treasure, and gain territory for their country. The Age of Exploration took place between the 15th and 17th centuries.

Explorers are people who have blazed the trail in going to new places. Throughout history people have always wondered what was beyond the next mountain, ocean, river, or even planet.

What did vasco da gama explore