Amerigo Vespucci

Italian cartographer and explorer

Amerigo Vespucci - Italian cartographer and explorer
Born

1454
571 years ago

Died

February 22nd, 1512
513 years ago — 58 years old

Category

Explorers & Adventurers

Country

Italy

Links & References

A cartographer and explorer active during the Age of Discovery, contributed significantly to the understanding of the New World. Participated in multiple voyages to the Americas between 1497 and 1504. His detailed maps and accounts were instrumental in distinguishing the newly discovered lands from Asia. The name of the continent, America, is derived from his first name, reflecting the influence of his work on navigational charts and exploration.

Mapped the coastlines of South America

Proposed the concept of a New World distinct from Asia

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