Introduction1450

The world in 1450 was a time of innovation and new explorations. We have studied how the Europeans were influenced by other civilizations, including the Mongols and the Chinese. This influences along with innovations helped spark the Italian Renaissance, which inspired the rest of Europe to create new inventions and art. The silk road was losing influence as trade by water became better-organized. As land-based trade became outdated and water-based travel became more popular, it led to mass expansion and the discovery of the Americas. This was a risk for royal governments, because the outcome of the trip was unknown. Luckily, many governments took the risk and helped explore the Americas. Christopher Columbus was allowed to voyage west to China by King Ferdinand and Queen Elizabeth of Spain. Zheng He traveled to the West Oceans.