The Age of Discovery or The Age of Exploitation?
Due Wednesday, October 4, 2017
Many historians feel that the years from 1492 to 1700 traditionally called the Age of Exploration and Discovery should be renamed the Age of Exploitation and Imperialism. In this blog, you will join the argument that scholars have been debating over the past three or more decades and present your opinion on this issue.
Some historians maintain that it was the “desire” to venture forth across the Atlantic Ocean and ascertain what laid beyond the horizon that brought about the Age of European dominance. Meanwhile, other historians maintain that is was the blatant manipulation and extension of European control in the new lands that allowed Europeans to gain world-wide dominance.
In your initial post, you are required to present evidence which demonstrates whether the era should be called the Age of Exploration & Discovery or Exploitation & Imperialism. No you can not claim it is both! You must make a choice on one or the other!
Do not repeat or use an event or person that has already been used by another student unless you are making a contrary argument!
Columbus Letter to the King and Queen of Spain 1494
Lecture 2: The Age of DiscoveryThe Age of Exploration: 1492-1650
First European Exploration and Exploitation
Columbus, The Indians and Human Progress
Two Documents from the Reign of Philip II
A Short Account of the Destruction of the Indies (1542)
Please feel free to use other sources but remember that Wiki’s are never an acceptable source!
