Newcomers Arrive

Beginning of New World Exploration

Italian Sailor

An Italian sailor by the name of Christopher Columbus proposed finding a new route by sailing West. He thought he could sail west around the world to the part of Asia that Europeans called the Indies.

The Search

For seven years, Christopher Columbus traveled around Europe looking for someone who would finance his journey.

The Search is Over

After many voyages, Columbus arrived in Spain. Still looking for someone to finance his journey, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain agreed to support Columbus’ journey.

The Journey Begins

In August of 1492 the King and Queen granted Columbus the supplies, men and ships that he needed to carry out this expedition.

The Three Ships

Columbus was given three sailing ships, the Nina, the Pinta, and the Santa Maria.

Confidence is Lost

After being out at sea for a while the men began to believe they were lost and would die of starvation. As the days wore on, his crew began to turn on him. Columbus was forced to agree to turn back, if they did not find land soon.

The Discovery

On the second night just before he would have to turn around, land was sighted. Columbus and his men discovered an island in the Carribbean, which they named Hispanolia. This island is located in the present day nations of Haiti and the Dominician Republic.

There are People Here

Columbus did not realize that he had arrived in a new part of the world. He was convinced that he was in India. For this reason, he called the natives who lived on these islands the Indians.

The New World

Even though he did not find what he started out looking for, he found something that has proven more valuable-The New World that became America.

European Explorations

Columbus’ voyage in 1492 marked the beginning of European exploration of the America. This was so important that the period before 1492 is know as pre-Columbian.

Contributions

Christopher Columbus contributed to the growth of existing communities.

Celebrations

To honor Columbus’ voyage Columbus Day was started by Italian immigrants in New York City on October 12, 1866. In 1937, President Roosevelt made it an official holiday. It is still celebrated today.

Who has influenced your community?

How did Christopher Columbus influence the development of communities today?