Fueled rivalry with Genoa, Florence, Milan, etc. Portuguese reach equator in 1471, the Congo in 1482, and Cape of Good Hope in 1487. Moslems and Venetians are cut out of the trade. First English circumnavigation, lots of piracy on Spanish shipping. U.S., especially pepper trade.
Money allows development of U.S. culture, increases disparity between north and south.
Modern remnants of the spice trade A. Afrikaaners in S. Africa B. Portuguese influence in Brazil C. Spanish influence in Philippines, Latin America D. Large populations of African-descent in West Indies E. Remnants of British culture in India, English as second language F. Various countries, esp. Most folks either love cilantro or hate it greatly.