timeline of exploration period History Timeline and Biographies

1492

Christopher Columbus Discovers the Americas

In 1492, Christopher Columbus, sponsored by Spain, embarked on his first voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, leading to the European awareness of the American continents. This pivotal moment marks the beginning of the timeline of exploration period, opening new avenues for trade and colonization.

1498

Vasco da Gama Reaches India by Sea

In 1498, Vasco da Gama successfully sailed around Africa to reach India, establishing a sea route that would become crucial for European trade. This achievement significantly influenced the timeline of exploration period by enhancing maritime navigation and commerce.

1519

Ferdinand Magellan's Circumnavigation of the Globe Begins

Ferdinand Magellan set sail in 1519, aiming to find a westward route to the Spice Islands. His expedition became the first to circumnavigate the globe, demonstrating the vastness of the Earth and expanding the timeline of exploration period dramatically.

1533

Spanish Conquest of the Inca Empire

In 1533, Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro conquered the Inca Empire in Peru, marking a significant event in the timeline of exploration period. This conquest led to vast territorial gains for Spain and the spread of European influence in South America.

1606

Abel Tasman's Exploration of Australia and New Zealand

In 1606, Dutch explorer Abel Tasman became the first European to reach New Zealand and the western coast of Australia. His voyages contributed significantly to the timeline of exploration period by charting previously unknown territories in the Pacific.

1610

Henry Hudson Explores North America

In 1610, English explorer Henry Hudson navigated the Hudson Bay in Canada, seeking a northwest passage to Asia. His exploration added to the timeline of exploration period and laid the groundwork for future British claims in North America.

1620

Pilgrims Establish Plymouth Colony

In 1620, the Pilgrims established Plymouth Colony in present-day Massachusetts, marking one of the earliest successful European settlements in North America. This event is a notable part of the timeline of exploration period, representing the intersection of exploration and colonization.

1642

Tasman’s Voyage to New Zealand and Tasmania

In 1642, Abel Tasman embarked on another voyage, discovering Tasmania and further exploring New Zealand. His contributions are essential to the timeline of exploration period, as they expanded European knowledge of the Southern Hemisphere.

1664

The Dutch Establish New Amsterdam

In 1664, the Dutch founded New Amsterdam, which later became New York City. This establishment was a key moment in the timeline of exploration period, showcasing the competition among European powers for territory in the New World.

1768

Captain Cook's First Voyage to the Pacific

In 1768, Captain James Cook embarked on his first voyage, which included the mapping of New Zealand and the eastern coast of Australia. His voyages significantly advanced the timeline of exploration period by enhancing European understanding of the Pacific region.

1770

Cook Claims Australia for Great Britain

In 1770, Captain Cook claimed the eastern coast of Australia for Great Britain, marking a pivotal event in the timeline of exploration period. This claim initiated British colonization efforts in Australia, reshaping the continent's future.

1788

First Fleet Arrives in Australia

In 1788, the First Fleet arrived in Australia, establishing the first British colony at Sydney Cove. This event is a crucial part of the timeline of exploration period, as it marked the beginning of significant European settlement in Australia.

1815

End of the Napoleonic Wars and Expansion of British Empire

By 1815, the end of the Napoleonic Wars allowed Britain to expand its colonial holdings, particularly in Africa and Asia. This expansion is an important culmination of the timeline of exploration period, as it solidified British dominance in global trade.

1898

Spanish-American War and U.S. Expansionism

The Spanish-American War in 1898 resulted in the U.S. acquiring territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, marking a new phase in the timeline of exploration period. This expansion reflected the shift in power dynamics and the emergence of the U.S. as a global player.