In Europe during the early 16th century, exploration was beginning to gain popularity and Europeans extended their rule westward to the Americas. Religion, trade, and technology gave them both the means and motivation to do so. The protestant reformation was an indirect influence for the age of exploration because it encouraged competition between protestants and catholics. This inspired people to try to evangelize in the Americas, causing a “race” between the two religious groups to see who could colonize first. This religious competition was fueled by the rulers of European countries, who in turn gave their explorers the means to travel the world. Trade was another influential factor. During the crusades, Europeans traveled to the middle