What European leaders most encouraged exploration of the world?

Several European leaders played pivotal roles in encouraging exploration during the Age of Discovery. Notably, Prince Henry the Navigator of Portugal sponsored numerous expeditions along the African coast, promoting maritime knowledge and navigation. Similarly, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain commissioned Christopher Columbus's voyage in 1492, which led to the European awareness of the Americas. Other leaders, like King John II of Portugal and later monarchs like Elizabeth I of England, also supported exploration to expand their empires and trade routes.