Chapter 12

What led Portuguese traders to explore the coast of Africa in the mid-sixteenth century?

Gold's value rose dramatically during and after the Black Death, and the Portuguese believed that Africa was a source of precious metals.

What circumstance permitted the English and Dutch to expand their trade in Asia and the Americas?

They took advantage of Spain's bankruptcy caused by religious and dynastic wars.

Why were the Portuguese and other Europeans motivated to find new routes to Asia?

They were responding to the conquest of Constantinople and the rise of Ottoman power in the Mediterranean.

What was Portugal's primary goal in the Indian Ocean trade?

To take over the trade or tax local merchants

The Aztecs and Incas used conscripted labor to build public wealth, while the Spanish used forced labor to enrich private individuals.

True

The experience of conquering the Aztec Empire taught the Spanish that effective conquest had to be accomplished quickly, completely destroying indigenous symbols of legitimate authority.

True

During the sixteenth century, what impact did the European presence in the Indian Ocean and South China Sea have on Asian dynasties?

The European presence enhanced Asian rulers' wealth and might.

What percent of the Amerindian population was killed by Afro-Eurasian diseases during the sixteenth century?

90 percent

The Columbian Exchange led to which of the following?

Corn (maize) replaced some traditional crops in China and Africa.

Which of the following accurately describes a change in China's economy during the Ming dynasty?

Silver money replaced barter in China's internal markets.