Question

What did the Europeans hope to gain by finding a sea route to Asia?

Answer 1

The main drive to find a route via sea was to avoid the silk road that was going through Asia (which was infested by bandits whom required a bribe to get passed). They wanted to trade with the Asians so that they could continue to enjoy their spice, silk, and get rich.

Overall they found a sea route because it was much safer and less expensive means of getting goods to and from Asia.

Hope it was helpful!