1500

1500 was a year in the Julian calendar, which was in use in Europe and many other regions at that time (the Gregorian calendar came into use in 1582). The year is generally counted as the last year of the 15th century, though some reckon it as the beginning of the 16th century depending on when the count from 1500 is started.

This year marks a period in which the maritime expeditions of European powers, particularly Portugal and Spain, intensified along the sea routes connecting Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. At the same time, Europe was undergoing cultural and artistic change known as the Renaissance, while the Middle East and Asia were home to powerful empires.

Maritime voyages

The year 1500 is associated with a Portuguese voyage led by Pedro Álvares Cabral that resulted in reaching the coast of Brazil, which began Portuguese contact with South America. At the same time, other Spanish expeditions were exploring the coasts of the Caribbean and South America. These voyages were part of commercial and exploratory efforts aimed at the routes to India.

Political situation

At that time the Ottoman Empire ruled the eastern Mediterranean and parts of the Balkans. Italy was divided into competing city-states, and the Italian Wars between France and Spain affected the region. East Africa and the Horn of Africa had trading cities along the Indian Ocean coast, which were precursors to Portuguese competition in the region.

Culture and technology

Following the development of printing in the 15th century, printed books made before 1501 are called 'incunabula'. Historians generally use 1500 as a dividing line between these early printed books and later printing, making the year a significant marker in the history of the book.