The figure central to early European exploration and colonization of the Americas, his voyages, beginning in 1492, are a pivotal topic in Advanced Placement United States History. The term refers not just to the individual, but also the historical context surrounding his expeditions and their profound impact. This includes the Columbian Exchange, the subsequent interactions between Europeans and indigenous populations, and the establishment of European settlements in the New World.
Understanding this individual’s significance is crucial because his voyages mark a turning point in world history. His actions initiated large-scale transatlantic exchanges of goods, people, and ideas, leading to significant demographic, economic, and social transformations on both sides of the Atlantic. Examining this history involves grappling with the complex legacy of exploration, conquest, and the ensuing consequences for both European colonizers and the indigenous populations they encountered.