Rivals Divide and Explore the New World
Grade 8 history covers how Spain and Portugal divided the New World through the Treaty of Tordesillas, while later voyages revealed the true scale of the Americas. Amerigo Vespucci argued the lands were a new continent, and Ferdinand Magellan expedition became the first to circumnavigate the globe, creating a more accurate worldview. Covered in IMPACT California Social Studies, Grade 8, Chapter 1: Changing Ideas and a Changing World.
Key Concepts
Spain's discovery of new lands created a rivalry with Portugal. To prevent conflict, the two nations signed the Treaty of Tordesillas . This agreement drew an imaginary line on the map, dividing the non European world between them. Spain claimed most of the Americas, while Portugal received lands to the east, including what would become Brazil.
Following this division, other explorers revealed the true nature of the "New World." Amerigo Vespucci argued that the lands were a new continent, not Asia. Then, an expedition led by Ferdinand Magellan became the first to circumnavigate the globe, proving the vastness of the Earth and the Americas. These voyages created a more accurate map of the world.
Common Questions
What was the Treaty of Tordesillas?
The Treaty of Tordesillas was an agreement between Spain and Portugal that drew an imaginary line dividing the non-European world between them. Spain claimed most of the Americas while Portugal received lands to the east including Brazil.
Who was Amerigo Vespucci?
Amerigo Vespucci was an explorer who argued that the lands Columbus found were a new continent, not part of Asia. This insight led to the Americas being named after him.
What did Magellan expedition accomplish?
Ferdinand Magellan expedition became the first to circumnavigate the globe, proving the vastness of the Earth and the Americas. These voyages created a more accurate map of the world.
Which textbook covers rivals dividing the New World for Grade 8?
This topic is in IMPACT California Social Studies, Grade 8, Chapter 1: Changing Ideas and a Changing World.
What grade level covers early European exploration and competition?
European rivalry and exploration of the New World are typically covered in Grade 8 US history.