What allowed for the age of exploration? (way of thought)

Unification of countries post war, merchantilism and colonialism

Explanation:

Spain and Portugal these countries gained a sense of nationalism and pride among the population. The people would help explore for the benefit of their nation and saw an opportunity in new lands. These countries looked elsewhere to expand their land, power and access to raw materials, without the need to go to war with powerful nations in their own country. This was colonialism. With this expansion, they could trade more goods. Access to expensive imports forms the Orient was crucial. As these countries had access to the coast and the technology developed quickly, the looked to the seas to find new and efficient trade routes to Asia. Making import cheaper and increasing the ability to export more is mercantilism.