Age of Exploration

Biological and cultural exchange between Old and New Worlds following Columbus's voyages after 1492

Global colonial empire spanning four centuries, creating the first truly worldwide political and economic system

First multinational corporation and publicly traded company, pioneering modern capitalism

Trading company that became a colonial power, ruling much of India and shaping global commerce for over two centuries

Medieval commercial confederation that dominated Baltic and North Sea trade for centuries

Business owned by shareholders with transferable stakes, limited liability, and perpetual existence