What was a key factor in connecting the Ottoman Empire with the Age of Exploration?

The strategic control of trade routes was a key factor in connecting the Ottoman Empire with the Age of Exploration. The Ottoman Empire, which emerged as a powerful force beginning in the late 13th century, controlled critical trade paths between Europe and Asia, especially those that linked Europe with the Silk Road and later maritime trade routes. This control allowed the Ottomans to facilitate and regulate trade between different regions, which became vital during the Age of Exploration when European nations began seeking new territories and trade partners.

As explorers sought alternate routes to access the riches of Asia, the Ottomans remained a significant player in the region's trade dynamics, impacting European economic interests and ambitions. Their strategic location provided access not only to goods but also to cultural exchanges and innovations that drove exploration. The presence of the Ottoman Empire in this context meant that European powers had to navigate their territorial interests and influence, making the Empire a crucial entity during this transformative period in history.