Who is Christopher Columbus?

Christopher Columbus, the discoverer of the New World, was an Italian explorer who accidentally discovered the Americas, allowing Europe to colonize various parts of North and South America. If you want to learn more about who is Christopher Columbus, continue to read below.

His journey started in 1492 as he sailed across the Atlantic from Spain alongside the Pinta and the Niña ships to find a new and shorter path to Asia. 

However, instead of finding his way to Asia, he mistakenly lands on an island, now popularly known as the Bahamas, “discovering” the Americas and claiming it for Spain. Believing until his death that he had discovered a faster path to Asia, he undertook three further trips to the Caribbean and South America between 1493 and 1504.

Discovery of the New World

Columbus’ discovery marked the first time Europe had ever been in contact with the Americas. 

While the event allowed for various international trade, the Columbian Exchange— a massive exchange of diseases, plants, and animals, also marked the beginning of years of exploitation of those inhabiting the land long before foreign travelers came, devastating thousands of native lands and populations.

Summary

• Christopher Columbus is an Italian explorer who accidentally discovered the Americas in 1492 while searching for a shorter route to Asia, leading to European colonization.
• His discovery initiated the Columbian Exchange, facilitating trade but also leading to the exploitation and devastation of Indigenous populations.

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So, the next time someone asks you, “Who is Christopher Columbus,” you know the answer. Keep it up, young genius!

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