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European wealth came from a variety of sources, one of which was the Bolivian capital of Potosi. Disgusting amounts of silver were exported from this town during the Spanish conquests of the New World, resulting in Spain's rapid ascent to the top of European powers. The Spanish were not too keen on saving their fortune, however, so the silver was quickly spent and traveled eastward throughout Europe until it landed in the hands of the Chinese 300 years later (in the mid-19th century).
Another source of European wealth was the vast amount of diamonds and gold in South Africa (first discovered and mined by Dutch colonists, and then later the British). The amount of diamonds found in South Africa was so great, it is estimated that about 80% of the world's diamonds came from there.
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What was the main reason European countries set up colonies?
To increase their wealth and powerGaining income and raw materials
Who were the european powers in the caribbean and how did most of them earn their wealth?
The Spanish, British, Dutch, and Danish. Most of the European Powers were there to Profit from the sugar trade
Why did non Italian europeans seek new trade routes to Asia?
Italian murchants made huge profits by trading Asian goods. Italians used military strength to control the trade on the mediterranean and didn't allow other Europeans to take part in it. Merchants and other Europeans envied the profits made by Italian merchants, and found new routs to Asia. Sources: Creating America book and My Great Brain ;)
Why did the Europeans come to India- answer in brief?
1. The great wealth of india 2. Disunity among the rulers
Who was the first European explorer to encounter the cacao plant?
who was the first european to come in contact with a cocao bean
