1. which was the main reason that european nations competed to establish colonies along the coasts of africa in the fifteenth century? a) their desire to control eastward trade routes b) their hope to uncover westward trade routes c) their need to explore the interior of the continent d) their plans to establish missions to spread christianity

A) Their Desire to control eastward trade routes.

Explanation:

Eastern trade routes were of high importance because access to them brought high profits to the European nations. But it was a long route and therefore port stations were needed for the safety of ships and goods. The monopoly over the African Coastline proved vital for supremacy in Indian Oceans and therefore to protect their colonial interest. European nations competed to establish colonies along the coast of Africa.