Early Explorers/Exploration

Christopher Columbus

Jan 1, 1492

Christopher Columbus sailed to the Bahams and South America in 1492 and 1498, Spain paid for Christopher Columbus's expedition.

Vasco De Gama

Jan 1, 1497

Vasco De Gama sailed to India in 1497-1498 and Portugal paid for his Expedition.

John Cabot

Jan 1, 1497

John Cabot sailed to North America/NewFoundLand in 1497 and England paid for his expedition.

Juan Ponce De Leon

Jan 1, 1508

Juan sailed to Puerto Rico in 1508 - 1509. In 1513 he sailed to Florida and Spain paid for his expeditions.

Giovanni De Verrazano

Jan 1, 1524

Giovanni sailed to North Carolina's Outer Banks in 1524 and France paid for his expedition.

Hernando De Soto

Jan 1, 1539

Hernando De Soto sailed to Havana,Cuba and the west coast of Florida in 1539 to 1540 and Spain paid for his expedition.

Pedro Menedez De Aviles

Jan 1, 1565

Pedro sailed to Florida in 1565 and Spain paid for his expedition.