new world 15th century

The 15th century (14011500) was a transformative period in world history, marked by exploration, cultural flourishing, political upheavals, and technological advancements. Heres an overview of key developments across different regions: Europe: Age of Exploration and Renaissance Renaissance (14th17th centuries) - A cultural rebirth began in Italy, spreading across Europe, emphasizing humanism, art, and science. - Figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Machiavelli emerged. - The printing press (invented by Johannes Gutenberg, c. 1440) revolutionized knowledge dissemination. Exploration and Colonialism - Portugal led maritime exploration under Prince Henry the Navigator. - Bartolomeu Dias rounded the Cape of Good Hope (1488). - Christopher Columbus (1492) reached the Americas under Spanish sponsorship. - Treaty of Tordesillas (1494) divided the New World between Spain and Portugal. Political Changes - The Hundred Years' War (13371453) ended, strengthening France and England. - The Fall of Constantinople (1453) to the Ottomans marked the end of the Byzantine Empire. - Spain unified under Ferdinand and Isabella (1469), completing the Reconquista (1492). Middle East & Asia Ottoman Empire - Expanded under Mehmed II (r. 14511481), capturing Constantinople (1453). - Became a dominant power in the Eastern Mediterranean. Ming Dynasty (China) - Zheng Hes voyages (14051433) showcased Chinese naval power. - Later Ming rulers turned inward, limiting foreign trade. India - The Delhi Sultanate declined, while regional kingdoms like Vijayanagara rose. - Babur, founder of the Mughal Empire, was born (1483). Japan - The Muromachi period saw civil war (Ōnin War, 14671477), leading to the Sengoku ("Warring States") era. Africa West Africa - The Mali Empire declined, replaced by the Songhai Empire under Sonni Ali (r. 14641492). - Timbuktu became a center of Islamic learning. East Africa - Swahili city-states (Kilwa, Mombasa) thrived in Indian Ocean trade. European Contact - Portuguese explorers (e.g., Diogo Cão, Bartolomeu Dias) began mapping Africas coasts. Americas Aztec Empire (Mexico) - Expanded under rulers like Moctezuma I (r. 14401469). - Tenochtitlán became a major city. Inca Empire (Peru) - Expanded under Pachacuti (r. 14381471). - Built Machu Picchu and a vast road network. Other Civilizations - Mississippian culture (Cahokia) declined in North America. Key Global Developments Trade Networks: The Silk Road declined as sea routes expanded. Technological Advances: Gunpowder, navigation tools (astrolabe, compass). Religious Shifts: The Spanish Inquisition (1478) targeted non-Christians. Conclusion The 15th century set the stage for the early modern era, with European exploration reshaping global connections, while powerful empires rose and fell in Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The Renaissance and technological innovations laid the groundwork for future revolutions. Would you like more details on a specific region or event?