John Cabot, originally named Giovanni Caboto, was an Italian navigator who became an essential figure in the early exploration of North America. Wishing to find a shorter route to Asia that would allow Europe to bypass the long and costly land routes dominated by the Ottoman Empire, Cabot sought support from the English crown. King Henry VII's willingness to finance such endeavors offered him the opportunity to pursue his ambitions. Cabot's ship, the Matthew, was a small but sturdy vessel suited for exploration. His departure from Bristol, England, in May 1497 marked a pivotal moment in maritime exploration. The journey was characterized by early navigational challenges but was inspired by the advancements in shipbuilding and navigation techniques of the time.

Once at sea, Cabot's crew faced difficulties typical of long voyages, including scarcity of supplies and rough waters. However, upon reaching land, believed to be the coast of Newfoundland, Cabot claimed it for England, thereby laying the groundwork for future English claims in North America. This act symbolized England's growing interest in overseas exploration at a time when Spain and Portugal had already set notable precedents in the New World. The voyage demonstrated the potential wealth and resources that could be harnessed from these new territories, igniting further exploration and colonization efforts by the English crown.