(Above: Columbus and his crew landing in the Bahamas)
In the 15th century and the years leading up to it, European exploration was reaching its peak. European countries were searching hard for a new route to sail to Asia. The East Indies, a group of islands southeast of the continent, held spices used as medicine and preservatives for food. Some sailed around Africa to reach the Indies. But others--such as a man named Christopher Columbus--tried going west. This led to the discovery of a "New World," what would soon be called the Americas. These lands became the prime interest of Europe over the next few hundred years, with different countries fighting to gain control.
Below: A map of early European exploration.
(Click above to view a timeline of significant events in European exploration)