It's a controversial issue, but yes they can.
Many european nations and america desired to expand their "spheres of influence" and control parts of China for their own 'empire', which enables the nations to get more resources and other 'exotic' things that they do not have in their native lands.
Amerigo Vespucci, (born 1454?, Florence, Italy—died 1512, Sevilla, Spain), merchant and explorer-navigator who took part in early voyages to the New World (1499–1500 and 1501–02) and occupied the influential post of piloto mayor (“master navigator”) in Sevilla (1508–12).
Oh you need 50 more words duh
