Christopher Columbus Research Paper

In the late 15th century, new worlds were discovered and a host of new opportunities along with them. New inventions such as the quadrant and traverse board allowed for easier navigation, especially between the Americas and Europe. The Americas, discovered by Christopher Columbus, allowed for more consistent travel between continents which at the time were unknown to and absolutely huge land masses that brought along new opportunities for many countries. Along with these new continents came new groups of people as well, such as the Native American tribes, Aztecs in Central-America, and other civilizations such as the Inca Empire. Along with the help of Henry the Navigator and the Portuguese in the late 15th century, word about the discovery

To this day it is still common knowledge to everyone that Columbus founded the new world, but without these tools and funding, he may not have been the first at all. It was the late 15th Century, many European countries had seen the last few breaths of the Renaissance. Many countries were in a transitional period from this rebirth, as well as seeing economic decline. Of all the great countries of Europe like Great Britain and France, it was Portugal that funded Christopher Columbus’ voyage to India. They funded him with new and improved ships with larger cargo holds and more efficient sails. Everyone has heard of his three ships, The Niña, The Pinta, and The Santa Maria. These ships were large, fit for long journeys along the ‘other’ way to India. While these new ships and improved sails were what led to many journeys to come, it’s nothing compared to the actual sailing tools used by explorers, privateers, and pirates

One of the most notable leaders who did this is Prince Henry the Navigator. Prince Henry the Navigator was a Portuguese prince who sponsored voyages which kicked off the beginning of the Age of Exploration. One of the most influential discovered land masses is the New World, present day Americas, discovered by Christopher Columbus. When people settled in the New World they began to find gold and silver and started send both back to Europe. This caused the Price Revolution, sudden but constant inflation. Most of the bullion was being sent to Spain and Portugal; These two countries did not manufacture many goods compared to England, France, and the Netherlands. Which caused these three countries to become financial powerhouses; A position they continue to hold. Leaving Spain and Portugal in their