Heroes of the Sea | In Pursuit of Discoveries

1. Amerigo Vespucci (1454-1512)

Vespucci is recognized as the first explorer to realize that America was a new continent. Through his travels, he mapped the region and introduced it to Europe. In his honor, the new continent was named "America."

2. Christopher Columbus (1451-1506)

In 1492, Columbus crossed the Atlantic and reached a new continent. He initially mistook it for India and discovered the Caribbean Islands, initiating the first contacts between different cultures. His voyages reshaped Europe's worldview.

3. Francis Drake (c. 1540-1596)

Known as the second navigator to circumnavigate the globe, Drake was both a daring explorer and a famous pirate. His victory against the Spanish Armada made him a national hero in England.

4. Ferdinand Magellan (1480-1521)

Magellan is renowned as the first to circumnavigate the globe. Although he died in the Philippines, his crew completed the journey, transforming global trade dynamics.

5. James Cook (1728-1779)

Cook’s voyages in the Pacific led to the mapping of Australia and New Zealand. His scientific discoveries introduced many new species to Europe, and his peaceful relations with indigenous peoples distinguished him from other explorers.

6. Vasco da Gama (1460-1524)

In 1498, da Gama became the first European to reach India by rounding the Cape of Good Hope, opening a new trade route between East and West. This journey reinforced Portugal’s maritime power and wealth.

Media