During the period 1400s and 1500s, many European nations were in constant conflict with each other as they struggled to increase their power and wealth. Many of these nations believed trade with other countries was the best way to increase wealth. However, many of the land routes that were used for trade with Asia were controlled by other countries that blocked direct trade between European and Asian nations. As a result, European leaders began to seek new sea routes to Asia.
Along with the idea of looking for new trade routes, they also hoped to find new sources of gold, silver, and other valuables. Additionally, Europeans saw exploration as a way to bring Christianity to other cultures that lived in other lands.
Well the reasons that people hope to discover new trade routes are that they allow for: more people to trade with, which means new food, clothing, metals, and other products.
