Christopher Columbus was an Italian explorer who set out on four voyages across the Atlantic Ocean, leading to the European exploration and colonization of the Americas. He became an explorer by studying mathematics, astronomy, cartography, and navigation. He was born in Genoa, Italy, in 1451. In 1492, sailing under the Spanish flag, Columbus set out on his first voyage in search of a westward route to Asia. Instead, he reached the Bahamas, which he believed to be the East Indies. This voyage marked the beginning of European exploration and colonization of the Americas.
On subsequent voyages, Columbus explored the Caribbean islands, Central America, and the northern coast of South America. Despite his significant contributions