Amerigo Vespucci, an Italian explorer and navigator, is renowned for his voyages to the New World during the Age of Exploration. In May 1497, he departed from Cádiz, Spain, on a significant expedition that would define his career and shape European understanding of the Americas. Vespucci’s voyage was part of a larger trend of exploration fueled by the desire for new trade routes and wealth following Christopher Columbus's initial journey across the Atlantic in 1492. The Spanish crown supported Vespucci's mission, reflecting the competition among European powers to capitalize on newly discovered territories.

During this voyage, Vespucci sailed along the coast of South America, where he meticulously observed and documented the geography, flora, fauna, and indigenous peoples he encountered. His remarkable attention to detail not only showcased his navigational prowess but also underscored the importance of empirical evidence in the age of exploration. Vespucci's observations led him to challenge the prevailing notion of the time that Asia had been reached; instead, he argued that these lands were a New World, distinct from Asia.

Vespucci’s exploration was pivotal for European cartography—his letters describing the New World were published widely, influencing contemporary maps and future explorers. His name was ultimately immortalized in the continents of North and South America, which were named after him as a tribute to his contributions to the understanding of these lands. The stage was set for further expeditions that would unveil the vast resources and potential for colonization in the New World, reshaping global trade and interactions between Europe and the Americas.