Historical Events tagged with "1493"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Exploration & Discovery

Christopher Columbus Discovers Puerto Rico

November 18th, 1493 531 years ago

Christopher Columbus first encountered the island now known as Puerto Rico during his second voyage to the Americas. Upon sighting the island, he named it 'San Juan Bautista' in honor of St. John the Baptist. This event marked a significant moment in the exploration of the Caribbean as Columbus and his crew navigated through the waters, impressed by the island's lush landscape and the native taíno people they encountered.

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Exploration & Discovery

Columbus Sets Sail on Second Voyage

September 9th, 1493 531 years ago

Christopher Columbus departed from Cadiz with 17 ships and 1,200 men, embarking on his second voyage to the New World. This expedition aimed to explore and establish Spanish claims on new territories discovered during his first journey. Columbus sought to return to the lands he had previously encountered, fueled by the ambition to enhance Spain's wealth and expand its influence overseas. As he departed, many were hopeful that this voyage would yield greater riches and valuable resources for Spain.

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