“European expeditions to East Asia and South-East Asia were motivated by a desire for wealth.” Discuss.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the statement, with which they may agree, partially agree or disagree. Candidates may suggest that the belief in Europe about the limitless wealth of the Orient fuelled a desire by both individuals and monarchs to explore and break the Ottoman monopoly of the spice trade in order to reap the material benefits. Additionally or alternatively, candidates may argue that a range of other factors were also significant. These may include the expansion of Christianity against the growth of Islam, the rivalry between Protestants and Catholics after the Reformation, scientific curiosity and national rivalry. While no set response is expected, candidates must incorporate a review of the desire for wealth.