The 16th century saw the rise of the Age of Exploration, a significant trend that brought Europe into contact with new cultures. Driven by a quest for new trade routes and resources, European explorers set sail to uncharted territories, including the Americas, Africa, and Asia. This era led to extensive exchanges of goods, ideas, and technologies, profoundly impacting global demographics, economics, and cultures. Additionally, the European encounter with indigenous populations and diverse societies initiated processes of colonization and cultural assimilation while also revealing the richness of global diversity. This interaction laid the groundwork for the modern global landscape.