Who were some of the key explorers during this period and what were their significant contributions?

Who were some of the key explorers during this period and what were their significant contributions?

Some key explorers during the Age of Exploration were Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, and Henry Hudson.

Christopher Columbus is known for his voyages across the Atlantic Ocean, which led to the discovery of the Americas. His expeditions opened up new trade routes and initiated European colonization in the New World.

Vasco da Gama was a Portuguese explorer who successfully sailed around the Cape of Good Hope and reached India. His voyage established a direct sea route from Europe to Asia, bypassing the Ottoman Empire and opening up lucrative trade opportunities.

Ferdinand Magellan led the first circumnavigation of the globe. Although he died during the journey, his crew completed the expedition, proving that the Earth was round and expanding European knowledge of the world.

Henry Hudson, an English explorer, is known for his exploration of North America. He discovered and explored the Hudson River, which later became an important trade route for the Dutch and English in the colonization of the New World.