15th Century Geographical Expansion

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses how the 15th century represented one of the most important periods in the history of humankind. It marked the start of the quest for new lands and territories, for the discovery of the real geographical boundaries of the world outside the European limits. In this context, the competition between the great powers of the Old World became an essential element in the conduct of their foreign policy, and would eventually shape the new political relations on the European continent. The era of the geographical discoveries coincided with the time of great monarchs, such as Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain who largely supported the endeavors of sailors in search for new land. However, this paper asserts that from the perspective offered by the writings of Nicolo Machiavelli, it can be said that the willingness of the Spanish monarchy to finance such trips resided in their desire to exercise their power and authority over an ever greater state, on the one hand, and over their internal subjects on the other.

From the Paper:

"It must be pointed out the fact that the most important expedition financed by Isabella of Spain was that of Christopher Columbus who, in his attempt to reach the Indies, would eventually discover the American continent. (Columbus, 279-80) It is common knowledge the fact that Columbus's claim for the financing of an expedition in the Indies was rejected by the Portuguese and it was only at the court of Spain that he found support for his endeavor. This would prove an essential element for both the evolution of the Spanish crown and for the political interpretation of the actions undergone at the time."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Berstein, Serge, and Milza, Pierre. Histoire de l'Europe. Paris: Hatier, 1994
• Columbus, Christopher. "Letters on the discvery of the New World". in Four Voyages. translated by J.M. Cohen. Penguin Books, 1969.
• Machiavelli, Nicolo. "The constitutional theory of a realist". In The Prince translated by George Bull. Penguin Books, 1999.

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