We were mostly effected positively, it has made Europe one of the wealthiest continents.
I think its gold, glory, and god
Find new trade routes to Asia Obtain riches/gold Glory Claim new lands Convert Natives Make sure other nations don't claim land/riches
during the renaissance, it would most likely be that the people at the time wanted to fuel their knowledge hunger.
To find a trade route to India so they didn't have to pay taxes for crossing through Asian countries.