Christopher Columbus

Christopher Columbus was an Italian explorer. He was born in Genoa, Italy, around 1451. He sailed west across the Atlantic Ocean hoping to reach Asia. Instead, he reached the Americas in 1492, changing world history forever.

Early Life

Columbus grew up near the sea and became a sailor as a teenager. He believed he could reach Asia by sailing west. He asked the king and queen of Spain to pay for his trip. After many years, Queen Isabella agreed.

A painted portrait believed to show Christopher Columbus.
A painted portrait believed to show Christopher Columbus. (Sebastiano del Piombo / Wikimedia Commons)

Big Achievements

Columbus sailed with three ships: the Nina, the Pinta, and the Santa Maria. He landed in the Bahamas on October 12, 1492. He made four voyages to the Americas. His trips opened up contact between Europe and the Americas, though they also brought suffering to the native people.

Fun Facts

  • Columbus never actually set foot in North America.
  • He thought he had reached islands near Asia, not a new continent.
  • Columbus brought back parrots, gold, and plants to Spain.

Did You Know?

Columbus Day is celebrated on the second Monday of October in the United States. Many places now also celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day on the same date to honor the native people who were already living in the Americas.