Which country was primarily involved during the Age of Exploration?

During the Age of Exploration, which spanned from the 15th to the 17th centuries, both Spain and Portugal were at the forefront of maritime exploration, making significant contributions to global navigation and the establishment of trade routes and colonies.

Portugal was a pioneer in exploring the coast of Africa and was instrumental in developing new navigational techniques and ships, such as the caravel. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to reach India by sea, establishing a sea route around Africa, and they played a crucial role in the spice trade.

Spain, on the other hand, is renowned for its voyages across the Atlantic Ocean. Christopher Columbus's expedition in 1492, which he undertook under the Spanish crown, led to the European awareness of the Americas. Following Columbus, Spanish explorers, like Hernán Cortés and Francisco Pizarro, claimed vast territories in the New World, greatly expanding Spain's influence and wealth.

Therefore, both Spain and Portugal significantly impacted the Age of Exploration through their exploratory ventures and colonization efforts, making the answer that includes both countries the most comprehensive and accurate representation of the period.