New World discoveries

The New World discoveries refer to European explorers, like Columbus, reaching the Americas in the late 15th century. These voyages opened up new continents and routes, leading to widespread contact between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. This era was driven by the quest for new trade opportunities, land, and resources. The discoveries drastically changed global history, culture, and economics, fostering the exchange of plants, animals, and ideas—known as the Columbian Exchange—while also causing profound impacts on indigenous populations. These events marked the start of a more interconnected, albeit tumultuous, world.