(Map is approximate and for illustration purpose only.)

Map highlights: Powerful states compete for influence: Habsburg Spain, France, England, and the Holy Roman Empire – The Renaissance and Reformation reshape religion, politics, and culture – Spain and Portugal lead global maritime empires – European trading companies begin to establish coastal settlements in South Asia – The Spice Islands (Maluku) are the source of coveted spices – New Spain rules much of Mesoamerica and the Andes – Portuguese Brazil is mainly a costal colony – The Ottoman Empire remains a dominant imperial power from the Balkans to Arabia and controls key trade routes between Europe and Asia – Vibrant commercial networks link the Mediterranean, Red Sean, and Indian Ocean 

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