Question

Why did European countries actively colonize much of the world between the 17th and 19th centuries?

Answer 1

They had hoped it would create new markets to supply them with raw materials and provide customers for finished goods.
I hope this helps

Answer 2

Between the 17th and 19th centuries, many countries had not been colonized. There was a lot of land worth a lot of money and it was predicted that this land had a lot of gold and would give them a better life as well as make the ruler of the colonizing country richer. This was the main reason colonization was so heavy.

I hope this helps!