Christopher Columbus was an Italian explorer and navigator, known for making one of the most significant voyages in history. Born in 1451 in Genoa, he developed a strong interest in exploration from an early age. Columbus believed that a westward route to Asia would provide a faster and more efficient way to trade, particularly for spices and gold. With this ambition, he sought the sponsorship of various European monarchs and eventually received support from King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain. In 1492, Columbus embarked on his first voyage with three ships: the Niña, the Pinta, and the Santa María. Instead of reaching Asia, he landed in the Caribbean, specifically in the Bahamas, marking the "discovery" of the New World for Europe. Over the next several years, Columbus would make a total of four voyages to the Americas, exploring parts of the Caribbean and the coasts of Central and South America, although he never realized he had found a new continent. Despite Columbus's achievements, his expeditions led to significant consequences for the indigenous populations, including colonization, violence, and disease. His legacy is complex, as he is often celebrated as a pioneering explorer while also being criticized for his role in the mistreatment of Native Americans. Columbus’s voyages opened the door for European exploration and conquest of the Americas, reshaping global history. Christopher Columbus was an influential figure in the Age of Exploration, born in Genoa in 1451. His ambition to find a westward route to Asia led him to seek sponsorship from European monarchs. In 1492, Columbus successfully undertook his first voyage, landing in the Caribbean instead of Asia. This marked a pivotal moment in history as he explored various islands and laid the groundwork for further European exploration. Columbus's expeditions greatly impacted the indigenous populations, resulting in both exploration triumphs and severe consequences. His legacy continues to evoke debate, highlighting the duality of exploration and its effects on native cultures.