Christopher Columbus

Date of Birth: October 31, 1451

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: May 20, 1506

Biography

Christopher Columbus was an Italian explorer and navigator who completed four voyages across the Atlantic Ocean, opening the way for the widespread European exploration and colonization of the Americas. Born in the Republic of Genoa, Columbus started his career as a seafarer and trader. His most notable voyage was in 1492 when he sailed under the auspices of the Catholic Monarchs of Spain, King Ferdinand II and Queen Isabella I, aiming to find a direct water route west from Europe to Asia. Instead, he stumbled upon the New World, landing in the Bahamas. This accidental discovery led to the eventual colonization of the Americas by European powers. Columbus’s expeditions had profound impacts on world history, leading to the widespread exchange of plants, animals, cultures, human populations, and ideas between the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.

5 Interesting Facts about Christopher Columbus

1. Columbus first proposed his plan to reach the East Indies by sailing west to King John II of Portugal, but he was rejected.

2. He completed four voyages to the New World between 1492 and 1504, exploring parts of the Caribbean including the Bahamas, Cuba, Hispaniola, and the coasts of Central and South America.

3. Columbus believed he had found a new route to Asia, not realizing he had encountered a previously unknown continent to Europeans.

4. His voyages opened the door for the widespread European exploration and eventual colonization of the Americas.

5. Columbus died believing he had found a shorter route to Asia, never fully realizing the magnitude of his discovery.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Christopher Columbus

1. “By prevailing over all obstacles and distractions, one may unfailingly arrive at his chosen goal or destination.”

2. “Riches don’t make a man rich, they only make him busier.”

3. “Following the light of the sun, we left the Old World.”

4. “You can never cross the ocean unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.”

5. “The sea will grant each man new hope, and sleep will bring dreams of home.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Columbus’s highest net worth can be estimated in today’s terms to be equivalent to several million dollars, largely due to the rewards and titles he received from the Spanish Crown.

Children

Christopher Columbus had two sons: 1. Diego Columbus (1480–1526) – He served as the 2nd Admiral of the Indies and later became the Governor of the Indies. 2. Ferdinand Columbus (1488–1539) – He was a bibliographer and cosmographer who accompanied his father on his fourth voyage.