Which of the following was a motivating factor behind the European exploration in the New World?

The motivation behind European exploration in the New World was largely driven by the pursuit of trade routes and wealth. During the late 15th and early 16th centuries, European nations were eager to find new sources of valuable goods, such as spices, gold, silver, and other commodities, that were highly sought after in Europe. The desire to bypass existing trade routes controlled by rival powers and to discover new lands rich in resources spurred exploratory efforts. This quest for economic gain led to significant investments in maritime explorations, ultimately resulting in the establishment of colonies and new trade networks across the Americas.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary motivations of the time. The aim to spread democracy and liberal values was not a predominant factor during the early phases of exploration; rather, it came much later in different contexts. Communism principles and totalitarian regimes were also not relevant motivators, as these ideologies developed significantly later in history and were not factors that influenced the initial European voyages of discovery. The focus was distinctly on acquiring wealth and establishing trade, making the pursuit of trade routes the central driving force behind these explorations.