* The Age of Exploration: The 15th and 16th centuries were a time of great exploration, driven by a desire for new trade routes, wealth, and knowledge. Caboto lived during this time and was undoubtedly influenced by the stories of other explorers like Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, and Ferdinand Magellan. These explorers' successes would have fueled his own desire to explore the world.
* Marco Polo's Travels: Though written centuries earlier, Marco Polo's account of his travels to the Far East would have been widely known and studied. It likely inspired Caboto's belief in the possibility of finding a new route to Asia.
* Trade with the East: European countries were eager to find a new route to Asia, which would allow them to bypass the Ottoman Empire's control over existing trade routes. Caboto's Italian background, particularly his ties to Venice, would have exposed him to the importance and profitability of trade with the East.
* The Rise of Portugal and Spain: Both Portugal and Spain were actively exploring the world during Caboto's time, leading to the discovery of new lands and trade routes. This would have fueled Caboto's own ambition to find a new route to Asia.
Ultimately, Caboto's motivations were likely a complex blend of these influences. His desire for wealth, fame, and adventure, coupled with a belief in the possibility of reaching Asia by sea, likely led him to pursue his own explorations.