The discovery of the Americas by Europeans in the late 15th century significantly expanded European empires and transformed global trade. It opened new territories for exploration, colonization, and resource extraction, giving countries like Spain, Portugal, France, and England access to vast wealth through agriculture, precious metals, and trade routes. The influx of goods such as sugar, tobacco, and cotton fueled Europe's economy and stimulated maritime trade. Furthermore, the encounter with indigenous peoples changed cultural and demographic landscapes, leading to the spread of European culture and, regrettably, the displacement and often devastating consequences for native populations across the Americas.