In the 1400s, European explorers benefited from what

The European explorers of the 1400s were aided by the Renaissance and the fact the many European nations in conflict with each other over power and wealth. The Renaissance gave birth to ideas that contributed to the exploration of new lands. The European nations were convinced that trade with other nations was the most efficient way to increase their wealth and power. Many of the land trade routes were controlled by other countries that denied direct trade between Europe and Asia. As a result, European leaders such as Spain's King Ferdinand and Prince Henry of Portugal financed explorers who desired to travel the seas. Europeans also saw exploration as a way to spread Christianity.