What was the main reason behind the world shrank?a)European sailors fo...
The American continent was discovered only when the sea-route through the Atlantic Ocean to America was found.
Due to both of the above reasons, there was increased interaction among the people living in various continents of the world, thus causing the world to 'Shrink' in metaphorical terms.
View all questions of this test
What was the main reason behind the world shrank?a)European sailors fo...
European sailors found a sea route
The main reason behind the world shrinking was that European sailors found a sea route. This discovery revolutionized global trade and communication, leading to the integration of different regions and cultures. The exploration and expansion efforts of European powers, particularly in the 15th and 16th centuries, played a significant role in this development.
Exploration and Expansion
European sailors embarked on ambitious voyages of exploration during the Age of Discovery. Inspired by the desire to find new trade routes and access valuable resources, they set sail to unknown lands. Prominent explorers like Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, and others undertook perilous journeys, which ultimately led to the discovery of new lands and routes.
Trade Routes and Globalization
The discovery of new sea routes had a profound impact on global trade. Prior to this, land routes, such as the Silk Road, were the primary means of long-distance trade. However, these routes were often dangerous and time-consuming. The new sea routes provided a safer, faster, and more efficient way to transport goods.
European sailors established direct contact with various regions, including Asia, Africa, and the Americas. This facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and technologies between different parts of the world. The increased trade and interaction led to the globalization of economies, cultures, and societies.
Impact on Europe
The discovery of sea routes had significant implications for Europe. It allowed European countries to bypass intermediaries and establish direct trade links with regions rich in resources and exotic goods. This led to a surge in trade and economic prosperity in Europe.
European nations such as Portugal, Spain, England, France, and the Netherlands competed for control over lucrative trade routes and colonies. This led to the establishment of vast colonial empires and the exploitation of resources in distant lands.
Cultural Exchange and Knowledge Diffusion
The shrinking of the world also facilitated the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and technologies between different civilizations. European sailors encountered diverse cultures and civilizations during their voyages, leading to the exchange of goods, languages, and cultural practices.
The discovery of new lands and civilizations challenged existing beliefs and expanded the European worldview. It sparked a period of intellectual curiosity and cultural transformation known as the Renaissance. The exchange of knowledge and ideas laid the foundation for scientific and intellectual advancements in Europe.
In conclusion, the main reason behind the world shrinking was the discovery of sea routes by European sailors. This led to increased trade, globalization, and cultural exchange between different regions. The impact of this discovery is still felt today, as it laid the foundation for the interconnected world we live in.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.