* Desire for wealth and power: Portugal was a relatively small country with limited resources, and exploration offered the opportunity to acquire new territories and wealth. The Portuguese were particularly interested in finding new sources of gold, silver, and spices.
* Religious zeal: The Portuguese were devout Catholics, and they saw exploration as a way to spread Christianity to new parts of the world. The Portuguese were particularly motivated by the desire to convert the Muslim Moors who controlled much of the Iberian Peninsula.
* Scientific curiosity: The Portuguese were also motivated by a desire to learn more about the world. They were interested in exploring new lands, meeting new people, and learning about new cultures.
Spain:
* Desire for wealth and power: Like Portugal, Spain was also a relatively small country with limited resources, and exploration offered the opportunity to acquire new territories and wealth. The Spanish were particularly interested in finding new sources of gold, silver, and spices.
* Religious zeal: The Spanish were also devout Catholics, and they saw exploration as a way to spread Christianity to new parts of the world. The Spanish were particularly motivated by the desire to convert the indigenous peoples of the Americas.
* Political ambition: The Spanish were also motivated by a desire to increase their political power. They saw exploration as a way to expand their empire and become the dominant power in the world.
