Why did Spain sponsor Christopher Columbus voyage?

Answer 1

The European powers were trading heavily with the West Indies (Pacific). At the time of Columbus' first voyage all trade was overland through the Middle East with intermediaries between the Europeans and the sources of the merchandise they sought. That made trade very slow, unpredictable, and expensive. If they could reach the source of the things they sought by sea, and not trade through intermediaries, they could buy exactly what they wanted, when they wanted it, and not pay the markup incurred by using traders as intermediaries. They were not looking for new lands, in fact they had no idea all that land existed. They were trying to improve an already existing business.

The country that could find a direct route to the far east would have an advantage over all the other countries trading with the East. That is what Spain was looking for, an advantage over all the others. They got lucky and found a lot more. In fact, a direct route to the West Indies wasn't found until 4 years after Columbus discovered the new world.

Answer 2

Columbus promised to bring Christianity to any lands he found.

Also if he found a way to Asia, Spain would become very wealthy.

Answer 3

because the thought they could get rich in the new world (India)

Answer 4

They saw that his voyage of discovery may lead to financial benefits for Spain.

Answer 5

King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain commissioned Christopher Columbus to sail westward primarily because