How did it lead to discovery of the new world?

The quest for new trade routes to Asia during the late 15th century led European explorers to seek alternative paths. Christopher Columbus, sponsored by Spain in 1492, aimed to find a westward route but instead stumbled upon the Americas, which he initially mistook for islands off Asia. This serendipitous encounter opened up the New World to European exploration and colonization, fundamentally altering global trade and cultural exchanges. Consequently, it marked the beginning of sustained European interest and involvement in the Americas.