Columbus Sails West: Discovery of the Americas Begins
Christopher Columbus departs Palos de la Frontera with three ships, launching a voyage that permanently links the Americas to Europe and triggers a massive exchange of plants, animals, and diseases. This departure ignites centuries of colonization and fundamentally reshapes global demographics and economies.
August 3, 1492
534 years ago
Key Figures & Places
Spain
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Christopher Columbus
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Palos de la Frontera
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Christopher Columbus
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Palos de la Frontera
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Spain
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Catholic Monarchs of Spain
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Alhambra Decree
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East Indies
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Americas
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Santa Maria
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Niña (ship)
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La Pinta
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first expedition
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