ForSEAdiscovery. Forest resources for Iberian Empires: Ecology and Globalization in the Age of Discovery (16th-18th centuries)

Abstract: In the Early Modern Age (16th-18th centuries) the construction of ocean-going ships was paramount to the development of cultural encounters during European expansion. In the case of the Iberian Empires, the establishment of new trade routes brought the need for armed merchantmen, galleons and smaller vessels, placing unprecedented demands on Iberian forests for the supply of construction timber. Forestry and sea power became inextricably linked, creating new geopolitical tensions, alliances and forest regulations. This paper outlines the methodologies and objectives of a major multidisciplinary project funded through a Marie Curie Actions grant (2014-18) which will see collaboration between universities, state research centres, and maritime archaeology companies.