Columbus' Voyage to the West

Christopher Columbus set sail westward in search of a new route to India for spice trade. During the 15th century, spices were highly valued and in high demand in Europe due to their ability to preserve and enhance the flavor of food. However, the existing overland trade routes to Asia were long and dangerous, prompting Columbus to seek a shorter sea route.

Columbus believed that by sailing westward, he could reach Asia quicker and more efficiently, thus gaining an advantage in the lucrative spice trade. However, his voyage led him to discover the Americas instead, where he encountered the indigenous peoples whom he mistakenly called “Indians” due to his belief that he had reached India.

Although Columbus did not find the direct route to India that he was looking for, his unintended discovery of the Americas had a profound impact on world history, leading to the establishment of European colonies in the New World and the Columbian Exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.