Columbus's Discovery of America
Historical eventAbout
Christopher Columbus's discovery of America in 1492 marked a pivotal moment in world history, initiating European exploration and colonization of the Americas. This event occurred when Columbus, sponsored by the Catholic Monarchs of Spain, set sail across the Atlantic with three ships: the Santa María, Pinta, and Niña. On October 12, 1492, a crew member spotted land, which Columbus named San Salvador, believing it to be part of the East Indies. This encounter opened the Americas to European influence, leading to profound cultural, economic, and demographic changes. Columbus's voyages led to the Columbian Exchange, where plants, animals, and diseases were transferred between the Old and New Worlds. This exchange had significant impacts on global populations and economies. Columbus's legacy is complex, with both admiration for his navigational skills and criticism for his treatment of indigenous peoples. His journeys set the stage for centuries of European colonization, profoundly shaping the modern world. Today, Columbus's impact is remembered through various celebrations and historical reflections.
