why would a route to Asia via the Atlantic ocean have given Spain an advantage over Portugal in the spice trade!

Because the Atlantic Ocean route is more straightforward, resulting in faster shipping time, and a easier trade exchange.

The initial goal of Columbus was in fact to find such route. He never expected fo find a whole new continent.

Portugal on the other hand, had a spcie trade route that crossed Africa and Asia, but that was not as straightforward.

"choosing is refusing" means individuals face an opportunity cost with each decision they make. economists state that every decision involves trade-offs. opportunity cost is the least desirable alternative given up as a result of a decision.

because this was the year that the state of israel was formed