Giovanni da Verrazzano (Verrazzano)

Giovanni da Verrazzano was an Italian explorer born around 1485 who is credited with being one of the first Europeans to explore North America's Atlantic coast. Sailing for France, he navigated along the eastern seaboard in 1524, charting regions from what is now Florida to New York Harbor. His detailed observations helped map the coastline and opened the door for future explorers and settlers. Verrazzano's voyage significantly contributed to European knowledge of North America. Today, the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in New York is named in his honor.