How apocalyptic beliefs influenced the first European voyages of exploration
Apocalyptic beliefs which influenced the European exploration voyages were based on the belief that apocalypse would happen somewhere in the west very soon. The belief that apocalypse would happen soon emanated from the various signs that the people had witnessed such as war and earthquake. This belief motivated the explorers to make explorations to other parts of the world where they would convert people and find Gold that would help in recapturing the city of Jerusalem before apocalypse (Knight of Columbus).
The kind of training and education that Christopher Columbus received, and which prepared him for his voyages in 1492, and influenced how he interpreted his discoveries
Christopher Columbus went to a school in Portugal that was known as Prince Henry School of navigation. Also, in Lisbon he studied Astronomy and math which prepared him for voyages and his interpretation of discoveries. Also through his numerous sailings he gained knowledge of the system of the Atlantic winds and Portuguese navigation (HSTRY).
Political and religious reforms that Ferdinand and Isabella enacted in Spain
The following are the religious and political reforms enacted by Ferdinand and Isabella in Spain. Religious unity that required individuals in Spain to either convert into Christians or voluntary exile was one of the reforms that were enacted by Isabella and Ferdinand. Another reform was purity of blood for one to be a candidate for leadership in government or the church (Country Studies).
Why the reforms were necessary
Religious unity was believed to be important for Spain to achieve political Unity. Blood purity for candidature in church position or government was aimed at minimizing any future resistance from the Granadan Muslims and the converts (Country Studies).
Works Cited
Country Studies. The Golden Age. Nd. Web. Accessed on May 9th, 2016 < http://countrystudies.us/spain/7.htm>
HSTRY. The First Voyage of Christopher Columbus. Nd. Web. Accessed on May 9th, 2016 < https://edu.hstry.co/timeline/the-first-voyage-of-christopher-columbus
Knights of Columbus. Why Columbus Sailed. May 24th, 2014. Web. Accessed on May 9th, 2016 < http://www.kofc.org/en/columbia/detail/2012_06_columbus_interview.html>
