Which of the following is/are the reasons for increased quest for and...
Reasons for increased quest for and discovery of a sea route to India in the 15th century by European Nations:
1. Obsession of Prince Henry of Portugal to find India:
Prince Henry the Navigator, a Portuguese prince, played a crucial role in initiating the exploration of the sea route to India. He was driven by a strong curiosity and desire to find a direct route to India, which was known for its wealth and exotic goods. Prince Henry established a school of navigation and encouraged explorers to venture into unknown seas, leading to the discovery of new trade routes.
2. Red sea trade route was monopolized by Islamic rulers:
During the medieval period, the Red Sea trade route was controlled by Islamic rulers, particularly the Ottoman Empire. The European nations, such as Portugal, Spain, and later England, faced difficulties in accessing the lucrative trade markets of India and the Far East through the traditional overland routes due to the dominance of Islamic rulers. This prompted them to seek alternative sea routes to bypass the Islamic territories and establish direct trade links.
3. Advancements in shipbuilding and navigation:
The 15th century witnessed significant advancements in shipbuilding and navigation techniques in Europe. These advancements, such as the adoption of the caravel ship and the use of navigational instruments like the astrolabe and quadrant, greatly enhanced the capabilities of European sailors to undertake long-distance sea voyages. These technological developments made it possible for European nations to venture into uncharted waters and explore new trade routes to India.
The combination of these factors - Prince Henry's obsession, the monopoly of the Red Sea trade route, and advancements in shipbuilding and navigation - propelled European nations to undertake extensive maritime exploration and ultimately led to the discovery of a sea route to India. This, in turn, had significant economic, cultural, and geopolitical implications as it opened up new avenues for trade and colonization, ultimately shaping the course of world history.
Which of the following is/are the reasons for increased quest for and...
Option d is correct
- Statement 1 is correct: Historians have observed that the idea of finding an ocean route to India had become an obsession for Prince Henry of Portugal, who was nicknamed the ‘Navigator’.
- Statement 2 is correct: In 1453, Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Turks, due to which merchandise trade from India to the European markets came under Arab Muslim intermediaries. The Red Sea trade route was a state monopoly from which Islamic rulers earned tremendous revenues.
- Statement 3 is correct: In 15th Century, Europe had made great advances in the art of ship-building and navigation. Hence, there was eagerness all over Europe for adventurous sea voyages to reach the unknown corners of the East.