Early Modern Period

The Early Modern Era emerged new global economy, new trading exchanges of food, animals and people (slaves), and the development of new, large empires. There was new military technology, Europeans began to use compasses and other navigational devices first introduced by the Chinese and Arabs. International trade increased, for the first time the Americans were included. Trade routes changed, in 1450 international trade focused on exchanges among Asia, Africa, and Europe and also some seaways like Indian ocean and the Mediterranean sea. This was a major step to bring the world closer together. The spread of religions continued to spread, with Islam reaching Southeast Asia and parts of southeastern Europe.