Question

Evaluate the extent which the development of gunpowder, cannons and other technology in the 15th century could be considered a turning point in world history.

Answer 1

The development of gunpowder by the Chinese in the 9th century represented a major turning point in the development of human civilization. Gunpowder, which was initially created in the search for new medicines, would be massively used for military purposes during the 10th century. As historical evidence shows that it was used in fire arrows, bombs, and fire lances.

Europe would develop much more powerful weaponry based on gunpowder, including military ships during the 15th century. This firepower gave European settlers the edge while confronting their Native American Counterparts throughout all the American continent. This superiority would make colonization of America and other parts of the world possible, shaping the political global context until what we know nowadays.