Gained access to Greek and Roman artifacts, began a desire for exploration, and an increase of technology.
In the 15th century Europe began to open trade in particular with the Ottoman Empire in Constantinople.
Due to the expansion of the Ottoman Empire, they came to hold the artifacts of Ancient Greece and Rome. These civilizations held the ideas of representation in government, capturing the human form in art, sporting events such as the Olympics, and the roots of European tradition. This information came back to Europe which led to the Renaissance.
In hopes to gain direct access to the new products trade brought in, Europeans sought to find a direct route to Asia. This led to the explorations of Magellan, de Gama, Cabral, Balboa, and Columbus. These explorations allowed the Europeans to create trade networks in Europe and set up colonies all over the world.
Contact with the Ottomans also exposed Europeans to new technology. Inoculation was introduced which reduced disease as well as the technology needed to sail to Asia. New foods improved the health of Europeans and helped to increase the life expectancy of Europeans.
