The Era of Great Geographical Discoveries. The History of European Maritime Expeditions to Unexplored Continents in the 15th-17th Centuries

Renowned British scholar Professor John Perry presents the history of European geographical research and discoveries, the development of trade and settlements beyond Europe from the early 15th to the late 17th century. This was an era when Europe was discovering... the world beyond its territory. It began with Henry the Navigator and Portuguese voyages and ended 250 years later, when "exploration" was nearly complete. Professor Perry considers the political, economic, and religious incentives that prompted Europeans to explore and conquer, and he also analyzes the nature and issues of their settlements in colonized lands. The author points out that this era witnessed not only the fastest spread of geographical knowledge in Europe but also the beginning of a close connection between pure science and technology with practical life. He notes that during this period, especially in the latter half, European scholars outlined the contours of the physical Universe as we know it.  Old engravings add information and enhance the narrative.