What European explorer discovered the Americas?

Christopher Columbus, an Italian explorer sailing under the Spanish flag, is credited with the discovery of the Americas in 1492. He made landfall in the Bahamas, believing he had found a new route to Asia. While he is often credited with this discovery, it is important to note that indigenous peoples had inhabited the Americas for thousands of years prior to his arrival. Additionally, Norse explorer Leif Erikson reached parts of North America, specifically Newfoundland, around the year 1000.