The 'New World'

What was the 'New World'

The term 'New World' refers to the Americas, which were discovered by Europeans (the 'Old World') in the late 15th century.

Who discovered the New World?

The New World was initially 'discovered' by Christopher Columbus in 1492.

How were Europeans able to discover the New World?

Improvements in the technology of ship design, and the accuracy of navigation, meant that long ocean voyages, out of sight of land, became possible.

Why did the Europeans discover the New World?

Columbus was hoping to find a new route to India, by seeking a western route. Instead, he stumbled upon the Caribbean islands, which also became known as the 'West Indies'. The Europeans had had no previous knowledge of these lands.

Why was the discovery of the New World significant?

Columbus ended up 'discovering' the continents that we now call the Americas.

• ❖ His 'discovery' led to many other explorers from Spain, and later on Portugal, to make the journey and grab land for their monarchs.
• ❖ The New World was rich in resources - gold and silver, but also timber and furs - which were taken by the European colonists, developing trade and wealth for the European powers.
• ❖ Over time, other European countries began to colonise the New World - especially England, France and the Netherlands. This led to European domination of the Americas.