How did the exploration of the New World begin?

The exploration of the New World began with Christopher Columbus's voyage in 1492, sponsored by Spain.

The exploration of the New World, also known as the Age of Discovery, is a significant period in history that began in the late 15th century. This era was marked by extensive overseas exploration, primarily by European navigators. The most notable among these explorers was Christopher Columbus, an Italian navigator whose voyages were sponsored by the Spanish monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella.

Columbus set sail in 1492 with three ships: the Santa Maria, the Pinta, and the Niña. His primary objective was to find a westward route to Asia, particularly India, to establish direct trade links. However, instead of reaching Asia, Columbus landed in the Bahamas in the Caribbean, marking the first contact between Europeans and the Americas. This event is often considered the beginning of the exploration of the New World.

Following Columbus's voyage, other European nations, including Portugal, England, and France, also began to explore and colonize the New World. These explorations were driven by a variety of factors. The desire for new trade routes and wealth, the quest for knowledge, and the spread of Christianity were among the primary motivations.

The exploration of the New World had profound and lasting impacts. It led to the Columbian Exchange, a widespread exchange of plants, animals, culture, human populations, technology, and ideas between the Americas and the Old World. It also resulted in the colonisation and exploitation of indigenous populations, leading to significant demographic and cultural changes.

In conclusion, the exploration of the New World began with Columbus's voyage in 1492, sponsored by Spain. This marked the start of a period of extensive overseas exploration by European navigators, leading to significant global changes.