Contextualization

The age of great navigations was a period in history that marked the expansion of European countries around the world, forever changing the political, economic, and cultural dynamics of the planet. At the beginning of this expansion were Portugal and Spain, which first and most widely launched their networks of exploration and colonization. Over time, other countries such as England, France, and the Netherlands followed suit and explored unknown territories, seeking wealth and opportunities.

This phenomenon, although it occurred centuries ago, gave rise to many elements present in our current society. That is why European maritime expansion is not only a subject of study in history but a key point for understanding today's global dynamics. Meanwhile, the topic still arouses curiosity for the adventure, courage, conflicts, and discoveries it involved.

Introduction to Key Concepts

European maritime expansion was driven by various factors. In addition to the desire for exploration and wealth, there was also the need for new trade routes, especially to Asia, due to the closure of land routes by the Ottomans. At this point, it becomes relevant to understand the concept of a 'trade route' and how controlling these routes could result in enormous economic advantage.

Another important aspect is the issue of 'colonialism' and 'imperialism'. Maritime expansion was not only about discovering new places but also about dominating and controlling these locations. This led to exploitation and often the extermination of indigenous cultures around the world.

Lastly, it is crucial to understand the concept of 'cultural exchanges'. Through maritime expansion, cultures from around the world came into contact with each other, often for the first time. This led to a mix of traditions, religions, languages, and knowledge.

Recommended Resources

To delve deeper into the mentioned topics, I suggest the following sources:

1. Book: KISSINGER, Henry. Diplomacy. São Paulo: Editora Saraiva, 1998.
2. Book: HOBSBAWM, Eric. The Age of Extremes: A History of the World, 1914-1991. São Paulo: Companhia das Letras, 1995.
3. Website: Brazil School - European Maritime Expansion
4. Website: History of the World - Maritime Expansion
5. Documentary: 'The Age of Great Navigations' available on Youtube.

Practical Activity

Activity Title: 'Time Navigation: Understanding Maritime Expansion'

Project Objective

The proposal is to create an interactive journey that allows students to explore European maritime expansion, understanding its main aspects and influences in our current world. The final result of the activity will be the creation of a 'Journey Map' detailing the main events, decisions, and outcomes of European maritime expansion.

Detailed Project Description

Groups of 3 to 5 members should select a country involved in maritime expansion (Portugal, Spain, England, France, or the Netherlands) and trace its trajectory in maritime expansion. Students should research, organize, and present information in a creative and informative way.

The aspects to be covered in the journey include, but are not limited to:

1. Motivations for the maritime expansion of the selected country.
2. The main maritime routes followed and territories discovered or conquered.
3. The resulting interactions with other cultures and their impacts.
4. The legacies and implications of the expansion for the contemporary world.

Required Materials

There are no specific material requirements. The map can be created either digitally (using tools like PowerPoint, Canva, etc.) or physically (using cardboard, markers, prints, etc.).

Detailed Step-by-Step for Activity Execution

1. Formation of groups and selection of the country for analysis.
2. Research on the country's role in European maritime expansion, using the suggested sources and other reliable ones.
3. Identify the main maritime routes followed by the country and the territories conquered.
4. Analyze the resulting interactions and impacts of these conquests.
5. Synthesize the information and create the 'Journey Map'.
6. Prepare a presentation of the 'Journey Map' for the class.

Project Submission

The final project submission will be in two parts:

1. The 'Journey Map': This should detail the journey of the selected country in maritime expansion.
2. Written Document: A report documenting all the research and the map creation process. The report should contain the following sections:

• Introduction: Contextualization of maritime expansion and justification for the choice of country.
• Development: Detailed description of the research conducted, methodology adopted, and the map creation process.
• Results and Discussion: Discussion of the findings and results obtained, including analyses and interpretations. It should include a photo or image of the 'Journey Map'.
• Conclusions: Reflections on the findings and learnings acquired during the project.
• Bibliography: Citations of all sources used for research and map creation.

Students should present their 'Journey Map' to the class and submit the written report to the teacher within the established deadline.