Columbus’ Quest for Funding: How He Secured His First Voyage

Columbus settled in Portugal, where he studied navigation and sold maps. He developed a new idea to reach the East Indies by sailing west across the Atlantic Ocean, instead of the traditional route around Africa. Despite initial rejection from King John of Portugal, Columbus eventually secured support from King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain. In return, he promised them new lands and riches. The video concludes with review questions about Columbus's journey and his first voyage.

What was Columbus's big idea for reaching the East Indies?

• Sailing around Africa

• Sailing West across the Atlantic Ocean

• Using a new route through the Arctic

• Traveling by land

What did Columbus promise in return for the support from the King and Queen of Spain?

• New lands, gold, and riches

• A share of the profits

• A safe return for the sailors

• Maps of the new territories