Explorers
Christopher Columbus-
Between 1492 and 1504, the Italian explorer sailed the Atlantic Ocean on the Nina, Pinta, and Santa Maria (3 ships) and founded the Americas. He led four voyages throughout this time period.
Amerigo Vespucci-
In 1502, this Italian explorer was the first explorer to call the America’s “New World” and the name America comes from him.
Vasco Nunez de Balboa-
In 1513, the Spanish explorer crossed the Isthmus of Panama and reached the Pacific Ocean.
Isthmus is a narrow strip of land with water on both sides connecting to larger land areas.
Ferdinand Magellan-
In 1519, the Portuguese explorer let the first expedition around the world. Unfortunately, he was killed during the voyage.
Franciso Vasquez de Coronado-
He as sent by the governor of New Spain to find new city called Cibola but it didn't exist. Instead he explored the American Southwest in 1540.
Alvar Nunez Cabeza De Vaca
In 1528, he was the first to explore the Southwest Region of the United States which is now Texas.
Hernando de Soto
In 1540, he was the first European to reach the Mississippi river in hopes of finding gold.
Juan Ponce de Leon-
In 1513, he was the first explorer to land on the Florida peninsula.