Christopher Columbus Motivation For American Exploration

In 1492, the notorious explorer Christopher Columbus was credited for uncovering America. His accidental discovery changed the lives of those residing in the areas surrounding the Atlantic Ocean. European countries such as Spain, France and England had various motivations in regard to their expansion into the New World. Following Columbus’ discovery, Spain’s motivations were driven by “gold, God, and glory.” The Spanish intended to spread Christianity, accumulate additional land, and find riches such as animal furs and mineral wealth. Spanish explorers hoped to increase wealth by searching for El Dorado, the city of gold.
Like Spain, the French planned to spread Christianity. However, they also sought to discover a new route to the East. They planned to find this path by traveling on boat through North America. This would be a source of trade and travel. The French later started a life in Canada, where they traded fur and fish.

The English wanted to colonize as much of America as possible in order to add to its increasing Empire. Unlike France and Spain, this European country had no intention of spreading religion. Instead, England wanted to migration into the New World in order to escape its current state of religious turmoil. England’s expansion was largely driven by economic and political reason. Christopher Columbus’ unintentional finding changed the lives of Europeans. The New World was an opportunity for various countries to make improvements. Whether expanding meant spreading religion, finding riches, or discovering a trade route, each country had its own motivation for expansion. Spain, France, and England were only three of many countries to take advantage of life in the New