In what ways did Europeans owe some of their sailing technology to other peoples?

The compass was developed in China, and the sail came from traders in the Mediterranean. The astrolabe, used for navigation, was invented by islamic nations.

Europeans owe some of their sailing technology to other peoples through various means such as:

1. Arabic and Muslim Contributions: During the Middle Ages, Arabic and Muslim sailors made significant advancements in navigation, including the use of the astrolabe and quadrant for celestial navigation. They also developed sophisticated mathematical techniques for calculating positions, which European sailors later adopted.

2. Chinese Innovations: Chinese sailors had advanced sailing technologies long before Europeans, including the magnetic compass and sternpost rudder. These inventions greatly improved navigation and steering, and European explorers adopted these technologies during their voyages of discovery.

3. Polynesian Navigation: Polynesian peoples in the Pacific Ocean had highly developed navigation techniques based on observations of stars, currents, and bird migrations. They were able to navigate vast distances across open ocean using only natural clues. European sailors learned from Polynesian navigational methods when exploring new trade routes.

4. Indigenous American Boats: Indigenous peoples of the Americas had developed various types of boats and canoes suited to their local environments. European explorers learned from these designs and adapted them to their own purposes, such as using the lightweight and maneuverable canoes of the Caribbean for exploration and transport in shallow waters.

5. Innovations from Africa: African sailors and boatbuilders contributed to European sailing technology through their knowledge of shipbuilding techniques, navigation methods, and use of wind patterns. African influence can be seen in the design of sails and hulls used by European ships.

Overall, Europeans benefited from the exchange of ideas, technologies, and maritime knowledge with other peoples around the world, which played a significant role in the development of their sailing technology and ultimately facilitated their exploration and expansion during the Age of Discovery.