The leading factor in the european colonization of asia between 1500 and 1800 was the . to spread christianity, b. to dominate and control trade, c. to modernize the culture of asia, d. to import asian slaves to work in western colonies,

B. To dominate and control trade. Ever since travelers such as Marco Polo traveled to Eastern Asia in the 13th century, there has been a strong fascination and drive to develop trade and connections with Asia. Spices, Gunpowder, and Silk are examples of goods that were nonexistent to Europeans at the time. Having a control and influence over trade relations with Asian regions would allow colonization to be very profitable for the European countries who were able to do so.