What were European explorers trying to find as they sailed west from Europe? How did they handle the 'discovery of entirely new continents? What benefits did they gain from the New World?

Trade routes to reach India.

Conquered the land by defeating the natives.

Land and resources.

Explanation:

Many European explorers began to take voyages in search of a westward route to Asia. They began his sail to find a new route from Europe. Trade very much conducted within the region between Asia and Europe through the Silk Route. To break the pattern a new route became necessary, which led Christopher Columbus to reach America in 1492.

European upon reaching the new world began to seize land from the Natives. They fought and conquered civilizations in America. Diseases also led to the deaths of the Native Indians.

European got hold of resources, including raw materials for their empire in Europe. Spain found gold and silver along with introduced plantation to grow crops for their countries. The land was crucial for everyone in the New World as it showed power and wealth.