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Christopher Columbus

Christopher Columbus

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Quick Facts

First voyage to the Americas in 1492
Initiating European exploration and colonization of the Americas
Four voyages across the Atlantic Ocean

1492. Sailed west to find east. Changed the world forever — for better and worse.

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Life Journey

1451Born in Genoa, Italy

Christopher Columbus was born to Domenico Colombo, a wool weaver, and Susanna Fontanarossa. His early life was marked by a strong curiosity and a desire to explore the world.

1470Begins Maritime Apprenticeship

Columbus begins his apprenticeship as a merchant sailor, learning navigation and seamanship. This period lays the foundation for his future voyages and explorations.

1476Survives Shipwreck off Portuguese Coast

Columbus survives a shipwreck near the Portuguese coast, swimming ashore with the help of a piece of driftwood. This event strengthens his resolve to become a skilled navigator.

1477Moves to Lisbon, Portugal

Columbus moves to Lisbon, where he joins his brother Bartholomew. He works as a chart maker and continues to study navigation and cartography, honing his skills.

1484Presents First Voyage Plan to King John II of Portugal

Columbus presents his plan to reach Asia by sailing west to King John II of Portugal, but the plan is rejected by the royal advisors. This setback does not deter him from pursuing his dream.

1485Marries Felipa Moniz Perestrelo

Columbus marries Felipa Moniz Perestrelo, the daughter of the governor of Porto Santo. This marriage provides him with connections and resources that will be useful in his future endeavors.

1487Travels to the African Coast

Columbus travels to the African coast, exploring the regions of Guinea and Sierra Leone. This expedition deepens his knowledge of navigation and the potential for westward voyages.

1492Departs on First Voyage to the New World

Columbus sets sail from Palos de la Frontera, Spain, with three ships: the Niña, the Pinta, and the Santa Maria. His goal is to find a westward route to Asia, but he discovers the New World instead.

1493Returns to Spain from First Voyage

Columbus returns to Spain, bringing news of his discovery of the New World. He is received with great fanfare and is granted the title of Admiral of the Ocean Sea.

1498Departs on Third Voyage to the New World

Columbus sets sail on his third voyage, exploring the coast of South America and the Orinoco River. This expedition further expands his knowledge of the geography of the New World.

1500Imprisoned in Santo Domingo

Columbus is arrested and imprisoned in Santo Domingo by the new governor, Francisco de Bobadilla, for his alleged mismanagement of the colony. He is later released and returns to Spain.

1506Dies in Valladolid, Spain

Christopher Columbus dies in Valladolid, Spain, a deeply disillusioned man. Despite his groundbreaking discoveries, he never achieved the recognition he believed he deserved.