Europe was at a fairly weak point in its history after the Black Death. However, after a few centuries of reconstruction, Europe became the powerful continent it is today. Europe is home to many modern world powers, which have existed for hundreds of years and experienced ups and downs throughout their history. One of the worst events in Europe was the Black Death, which killed a third of Europe's population and left many more people poor and alone. Although the Black Death had devastating consequences, it also brought about changes, such as the creation of a middle class, which would lead Europe to its rebirth or Renaissance. Throughout the Renaissance, European culture and economy grew, alongside their desire to explore the world. As Europe entered the age of exploration, European explorers had three primary motivations that pushed them forward in their discoveries. The European desire for God, gold and glory had a major impact on the modern world. Religion has had a significant impact on the modern world. One of the goals of the Spanish when setting out to conquer foreign lands was to convert as many foreigners as possible. Missionaries were often among the first to settle in distant lands. Upon their arrival, many missionaries created religious schools to educate the local population about Catholic customs. Modern-day leaders used religion to justify their gross violations of human rights. Clerics were unlikely to challenge the treatment of Native Americans, as they profited from Spanish invasions of foreign lands. Not only did the Church gain more followers as a result of these foreign invasions, but the more money Spanish merchants made from overseas exploitation,...... middle of paper.. ....is still here today, and people all over the world still love it. The current capitalist economic system pushes individuals, as well as businesses, to acquire as much money as possible. Pride has led countries into wars, like the American Civil War, which pitted brother against brother in a fight for higher ideals. Glory also led to remarkable achievements, such as the landing of the first man on the Moon by the Americans, achieved in fierce competition with the Russian space program. On a smaller scale, individuals are also motivated by these classic motivations. Some people live to earn money, others to die a holy death, and still others to be remembered for their honorable deeds. Human nature has been one of the most powerful forces throughout history, and the human quest for God, gold, and glory has had a tremendous impact on the world we live in today..