Impact of Discoveries and Rise of Modern Monarchies

Consequences of the Discoveries

The discoveries brought important consequences:

1. Shift in Global Perception: Europeans encountered new lands, oceans, islands, flora, fauna, and diverse cultures, languages, and religions.
2. European Supremacy: European nations expanded territories, religions, languages, and customs, with Portugal and Spain establishing vast overseas empires.
3. Growth of Maritime Trade: The Atlantic became a pivotal trade route. Europeans imported precious metals (gold, silver) and agricultural products (corn, potatoes, tomatoes, tobacco, cocoa) from America, altering diets and habits (e.g., smoking). They exported goods like wheat, coffee, lamps, jewelry, horses, and sheep to the colonies.
4. Transatlantic Slave Trade: African slaves were brought to America for cheap labor.
5. Emergence of New Ethnic Groups: The intermingling of American natives, Europeans, and African slaves created new ethnic groups.
6. Scientific Advancement: Enhanced knowledge of the planet led to progress in geography, natural sciences, and cartography.

Monarchies in the Modern Age

During this period, three types of monarchies emerged:

Authoritarian Monarchy

European monarchs consolidated power, diminishing the nobility's influence. They unified territories, creating modern states. Key measures included:

• Royal Armies: Professional, permanent troops funded by the monarchs.
• Bureaucracy: Civil servants to administer the kingdom.
• Tax System: To finance political activities.
• Diplomatic Network: For foreign policy management.

However, these monarchs did not possess absolute power, as they had to respect institutions limiting their authority, especially in economic and foreign policies. Examples include the Spanish Cortes, the French Estates General, and the English Parliament.