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Aug 1, 1487
Bartolomeu Dias
First European to sail around the tip of Africa, opened the way to India, and was on a voyage that led to the discovery of Brazil. -
Sep 6, 1492
Columbus
To sail Around the globe to reach east Indies. -
Jul 8, 1497
Da Gama
He found a direct sea route from Europe to Asia, and was the first European to sail to India by going around Africa. -
Feb 6, 1501
Balboa
Opening up new, profitable land for Spanish settlers to exploit. He also wanted the distinction of finding a quick overland route to the ocean, in hopes of being rewarded by King Ferdinand with more responsibility. First European to see the Pacific Ocean. -
Aug 1, 1519
Magellan
To reach the Moluccas by way of a western route. Found a passage through South America, and his crew was the first to circumnavigate the globe. Died during his expedition. -
Aug 1, 1519
Juan Sebastian Elcano
One of the first besides Magellan to Circumnavigate around the world. -
Jan 6, 1534
Cartier
Searched for a western route to Asia via a northern waterway.Cartier explored the St. Lawrence River as far as present day Montreal, claiming it for France. -
Hudson
He explored Hudson Bay, the Hudson River as far as West Point, south to the entrance of the Chesapeake Bay. On his fourth voyage, marooned and left to die with his young son and seven others by a mutinous crew, Hudson was never heard from again.
