What was one of the main aims of European explorers during the Age of Exploration?

During the Age of Exploration, one of the primary aims of European explorers was to find new lands and trade routes. This period, which spanned roughly from the late 15th century to the early 17th century, was characterized by a significant push from European nations to enhance their economic power and influence through exploration. The explorers sought out new territories that could provide access to valuable resources, such as spices, gold, and other commodities that were highly sought after in Europe.

Additionally, the search for alternative trade routes was crucial for circumventing existing trade networks dominated by other powers, particularly those controlled by the Ottoman Empire and the Italian city-states. By discovering new paths, such as the sea routes to India and the Americas, explorers not only facilitated the expansion of trade but also initiated complex interactions that would lead to cultural exchanges, colonization, and profound impacts on global history. This objective significantly shaped the geopolitical landscape of the time and set the stage for the colonial enterprises that followed.

In contrast, the other options do not directly align with the primary motivations of the explorers during this period. While the establishment of permanent settlements did occur as a result of exploration, it was not the initial aim; the focus was more on the discovery and exploitation of