Image for Martin Waldseemüller

Martin Waldseemüller

Martin Waldseemüller was a German cartographer known for creating the first map that labeled "America" in 1507. He and his colleagues aimed to represent the newly discovered lands of the New World. Waldseemüller's map distinguished between Europe, Asia, and the Americas, marking a significant shift in how the world was perceived. His work reflected the expanding knowledge of geography during the Age of Exploration and influenced how future maps were made. Waldseemüller's contribution helped solidify the name "America" in honor of explorer Amerigo Vespucci, highlighting the importance of maps in shaping our understanding of the world.