When did Christopher Columbus start his journey? This question often piques the curiosity of history enthusiasts and students alike. The answer to this question is not only significant in understanding the timeline of Columbus’ expeditions but also in appreciating the impact of his voyages on the world’s history.

Columbus embarked on his first voyage on August 3, 1492. This historic journey was sponsored by the Spanish monarchy, King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile. The primary objective of Columbus’ voyage was to find a new sea route to Asia, bypassing the Ottoman Empire, which had blocked European access to the lucrative spice trade.

Columbus, an Italian navigator, was convinced that by sailing westward, he could reach the Indies, as he mistakenly believed the world was much smaller than it actually was. His belief in this westward route was based on his interpretation of the newly translated texts of the ancient Greek geographer, Ptolemy, which contained erroneous calculations of the Earth’s circumference.

The journey was fraught with challenges from the outset. Columbus’ fleet consisted of three ships: the Santa Maria, the Pinta, and the Niña. The Santa Maria, the largest ship, was commanded by Columbus himself. The journey took approximately 36 days, during which the crew faced numerous hardships, including harsh weather conditions and limited supplies.

Upon reaching the Bahamas, Columbus landed on an island he named San Salvador. This event marked the first time Europeans had set foot in the Americas since the Vikings had explored parts of North America nearly 500 years earlier. Despite his initial belief that he had reached Asia, Columbus realized that he had discovered a new world, which he named the Indies.

Columbus’ journey had profound implications for the world. It paved the way for European exploration and colonization of the Americas, leading to significant changes in the social, cultural, and economic landscapes of both continents. The exchange of goods, ideas, and diseases between the Old and New Worlds had lasting effects on the development of human civilization.

In conclusion, Christopher Columbus started his journey on August 3, 1492, a date that has become synonymous with the beginning of the Age of Discovery. His voyage not only marked the beginning of a new era in world history but also highlighted the importance of perseverance and the pursuit of knowledge.