Amerigo Vespucci was a navigator and explorer after whom the American continent is named. During the 15th century he played a prominent role in exploring what is termed the ‘New World’. In 1507, Waldseemuller a German geographer, gave the name America to the New World in honour of Amerigo Vespucci.
Amerigo Vespucci was born in Florence, Italy in 1451. He was employed by the Medici family to manage their ship outfitting business in Seville, Spain. During his time there he played a part in preparing the ships for the third voyage of Columbus. Vespucci took part in his early voyages on behalf of Spain, making his first voyage in 1497. His later voyages were sponsored by Portugal.
During his voyages Vespucci explored the coast of South America. He travelled south along the coast to within 700km of Tierra del Fuego. During his second trip he realised he was looking at an entirely new continent. Up until then it was thought that America was the eastern coast of India. Vespucci died in Seville on February 22nd 1512.
Amerigo Vespucci was born in the year 1451 On This Day.
Amerigo Vespucc