The period between 1450 and 1650 is known for European exploration into other parts of the world; this era is referred to as the "Age of Discovery," the "Age of Reconnaissance," and the "Age of Expansion." The European countries who ventured into unknown territory did so for a variety of reasons with some of the more prominent being the desire to establish trade routes with the East, which led to the discovery of the New World, desire for the products of the East such as spices, desire for new wealth in the form of gold and silver, and the desire to spread Christianity. Many factors, mostly technological advances, made it easier for countries to expand beyond the European Continent at this time.
One factor that accelerated expansion was political centralization in the major European countries - Spain, France, and England. In 15th Century Spain, Ferdinand and Isabella united the various Spanish kingdoms under their rule. With its monarchy stronger than ever, Spain was ready to venture out into foreign territory. However, Portugal's location on the southwestern edge of the European continent enabled it to start exploration before Spain and the other countries. Although the favorable location helped Portugal in expansion, this "Age of Discovery" was also stimulated by various technological developments. Prince Henry the Navigator's school for the study of geography and navigation also facilitated expansion on the part of Portugal. By 1350, the cannon had been fully developed in Western Europe. This giant, stone-firing gun was not very helpful in land conquests but held much value when mounted on ships. The Portuguese developed the caravel in the 15th Century, which held more cargo and was highly maneuverable. It used wind power rather than manpower used by the older galley ships. Another navigational development, the magnetic compass, allowed sailors to determine their direction and position at sea.
