Voyages of discovery and colonialism

In short: From the 15th century Europeans sailed all over the world, discovered sea routes and founded colonies. Colonialism brought exploitation, the slave trade and oppression, but also shaped trade and exchange.

In more detail: Columbus reached America in 1492, Vasco da Gama India in 1498, Magellan’s expedition first sailed around the Earth (1519–1522).

In detail

• Reasons: Spice trade, gold, power, mission, new ship technology and navigation methods.
• Consequences for America: Diseases, wars and oppression dramatically reduced the indigenous population.
• Atlantic slave trade: Millions of Africans were abducted and enslaved.
• Columbian Exchange: Plants such as potato, maize and tomato came to Europe (kartoffelsorten-und-zubereitung).
• Imperialism: In the 19th century European powers carved up Africa and Asia (Berlin Conference 1884/85).
• Decolonisation: After 1945 many colonies gained independence.
• Legacy: The consequences still affect economies, borders and societies today.