Sloane's intellectual pursuit of collecting cultural artifacts was also a solid business investment at the time because (A) people wanted to return to the Age of Enlightenment and go on explorations. (B) recently passed laws made international trade easier for all countries. (C) several countries were competing commercially to get new and exotic goods and foodstuffs. (D) universities did not yet exist, and museums were the primary sources of education.

To determine the best answer to why Sloane's intellectual pursuit of collecting cultural artifacts was also a solid business investment, let's analyze each option: (A) **People wanted to return to the Age of Enlightenment and go on explorations.** - This option suggests a desire for exploration and knowledge, but it does not directly relate to the business aspect of collecting artifacts. (B) **Recently passed laws made international trade easier for all countries.** - While this could facilitate the acquisition of artifacts, it does not specifically address the competitive nature of the market for cultural artifacts. (C) **Several countries were competing commercially to get new and exotic goods and foodstuffs.** - This option highlights the competitive market for unique and exotic items, which would make collecting cultural artifacts a lucrative business investment. (D) **Universities did not yet exist, and museums were the primary sources of education.** - This option points to the educational value of museums but does not directly connect to the business investment aspect. Based on this analysis, the most compelling reason that aligns with both the intellectual pursuit and the business investment is: **(C) several countries were competing commercially to get new and exotic goods and foodstuffs.** This option indicates a strong market demand for cultural artifacts, making it a solid business investment for collectors like Sloane.