The document discusses the expansion of western civilization and global trade networks from the 15th century onward. It describes how technological developments like the compass and mapmaking enabled longer ocean voyages. Countries like Portugal sought to protect their commercial interests by establishing forts along trade routes. Explorers like Columbus and Magellan opened up sea routes connecting Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, integrating these regions economically. Over time, private companies financed further exploration, expanding trade networks and introducing new crops and technologies around the world. Global trade increased interactions and exchanges between societies.