Where many European explorers were seeking the Northwest Passage through or around Canada?

Many European explorers, including Martin Waldseemüller, John Cabot, and later figures like Henry Hudson, sought the Northwest Passage as a route to Asia through or around Canada. They believed that this waterway would provide a faster and more direct trade route for valuable goods such as spices and silk. The pursuit of the Northwest Passage was driven by the desire for economic gain and competition among European powers during the Age of Exploration. However, the harsh Arctic conditions and complex geography made the passage elusive for many years.