Waldseemüller's map of the world

Waldseemüller's map, created in 1507, is one of the earliest maps to depict North and South America as separate continents. It was notable for naming "America" after explorer Amerigo Vespucci. The map reflects the European understanding of the world at the time, combining explorations and some inaccuracies, like an elongated Africa. It marked a shift from earlier maps by recognizing the New World as a distinct landmass. Waldseemüller's map thus played a key role in shaping Europeans' geographic knowledge and the naming of America.