America (No Native America)

Since their was no native population, European colonies had less to deal with as far a revolts went. But since none knew the land, massive starvation was common in the Americas until several discoveries by Sir George McKinley.

Vikings!
The colony of Vinland ( in OTL Labrador) made Norway one of the most prosperous nations in Europe. Many nations including France, and England tried to make it to the New World, but were stopped by the powerful Norse Navy. The Norse founded another colony in 1078 a.d. ( that included most of OTL Quebec) and named it Treeland. These colonies grew fat with riches, but the people here were very poor. They revolted in 1358 a.d. and formed three absolute monarchies of Vinland, Treeland, and Shrubland ( which comprised of OTL Ontario). War with Norway continued until 1369 a.d., by which time Norway was no longer a super power.

The Caravel
The Caravel was developed in 1401, in Portugal. This combined with the fact that Norway was crippled allowed Portugal to expand westward. In 1402, The Spanish Empire was formed and it wanted some of the new world also.