Christopher Columbus
- Born:
- Most likely Genoa, Republic of Genoa (present-day Italy), between August 26 and October 31, 1451
- Died:
- May 20, 1506, Valladolid, Crown of Castile (present-day Spain)
- Nationality:
- Genoese
- Profession(s):
- Explorer, Navigator, Colonizer
Early Life and Education
- Columbus's early life is not well documented, but it's believed he came from a family of modest means.
- He likely received a basic education and gained maritime experience from a young age, possibly sailing on trading voyages.
- There's evidence suggesting he was self-taught in cartography, astronomy, and geography.
Career and Major Achievements
- Convinced the Spanish Crown (King Ferdinand II and Queen Isabella I) to finance a westward voyage to find a new route to the East Indies.
- In 1492, his expedition landed on an island in the Bahamas, marking the European arrival in the Americas.
- Made four voyages across the Atlantic Ocean, exploring parts of the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.
- Served as Governor of the Indies for a period, though his administration was marred by controversy.
Notable Works
- Journals and letters documenting his voyages, providing valuable insights into his experiences and observations.
- The "Book of Privileges," a collection of royal decrees and concessions granted to Columbus by the Spanish Crown.
Legacy and Impact
Christopher Columbus's voyages initiated the Columbian Exchange, a widespread transfer of plants, animals, culture, human populations, technology, diseases, and ideas between the Americas, West Africa, and the Old World in the 15th and 16th centuries. While his arrival marked a turning point in world history, leading to European colonization and the exploitation of indigenous populations, the search for information regarding "prabhas date birth biography of christopher columbus" highlights a continued interest in biographical details concerning this controversial historical figure. His explorations opened up new trade routes and ushered in an era of global interconnectedness.