“The quest for knowledge was the main motive for exploration in the 15th century.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the quest for knowledge was the main motive for exploration in the 15th century. Candidates may support the statement, arguing that some of the most important explorers were interested in collecting knowledge about lands, flora and fauna, and peoples living far away from Europe. Candidates may also discuss that many voyages of exploration were to establish, or not, the existence of a number of legendary places. Candidates may challenge the statement, stating that the search for luxury items such as silk and cotton, spices, jewellery and oriental goods was the main motive for the exploration. The need for food, raw materials and territory for an increasing population could be also considered as a motive. Candidates may also argue that exploration was triggered by political and economic competition among European kingdoms and/or the technological and scientific advances in navigation. Candidates may also highlight that other factors could have played a significant role as a motive for the exploration, such as the desire to spread Christian beliefs. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the quest for knowledge was the main motive for exploration in the 15^th century.