Christopher Columbus
Columbus was born in Italy in the year 1451. At the age of eighteen, Columbus extensively traveled seeking financing for his voyage to the New World. After many failed attempts, Columbus landed in Spain where King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella agreed to fund his expedition. Columbus and his fleet of three ships set sail. On 12th October 1492, Columbus and his crew set foot in the Bahamas. Thereafter, Columbus discovered other islands in the Caribbean and returned home in triumph.
Columbus undertook further voyages in search of the Asian lands but was unsuccessful. He died in the year 1506 a wealthy but disappointed man.
Amerigo Vespucci
Amerigo Vespucci was born in the year 1454 in Italy. He made his fortune as a merchant, navigator, and explorer. Amerigo’s travels provided map data for Columbus during his exploration of the New World. Before Columbus embarked on his voyages, Amerigo had held the title of the most famous traveler to the New World.
King Ferdinand
After Columbus began his voyage, King Ferdinand promised him control over all the lands he discovered. However, after completing his mission, King Ferdinand betrayed the terms of their agreement. The king claimed the lands for himself.
Bartolome
Bartolome was Columbus’s brother. In his journals, Columbus makes several references to his brother. Columbus and Bartolome were extremely close.
Ship Crew
On different occasions, the crew organized mutinies for fear of their lives. Some wanted to go back home after realizing their captain had no clue of their destination. However, Columbus managed to convince his crew to continue with their mission in these incidents.
The Natives
Columbus believed that all the lands he discovered belonged to him. Instead of working with the natives, he enslaved them and forced them to do his bidding. The natives became angry and took over his house and properties. They also threw him in prison.
