This essay should be substantial and thorough, but doesn't HAVE to be more than one page (minimum), if you can adequately answer the questions in that length.
The essay answers should consist of three main parts: an introduction paragraph should be a paragraph long and explain in brief your answer to the question, main body (at least three paragraphs up to however many paragraphs it takes), and a conclusion paragraph (restating your argument).
Be sure to answer all the questions fully and please be specific in your answers, answering the Who, What When, Where and HOW this impacted society at that time.
Essay topic:
With the advent of maritime exploration the influence of the West (at this point, meaning Western Europe) changed greatly. Describe how the influence of the West changed with regards to economic, political, and cultural influence. Further, discuss the original motivations for Western maritime exploration and the consequences of this new venture. Be sure to use specific examples.