John Cabot (c. 1450–c. 1499) was an Italian explorer and navigator known for his 1497 voyage to the coast of North America under the commission of Henry VII of England. His successful journey aboard the ship Matthew is often credited as the first European Exploration of the mainland since the Vikings. Cabot's exploration laid the groundwork for the later British claims to Canada and the subsequent English colonial expansion. His voyages remain a significant milestone in the Age of Discovery, marking the beginning of transatlantic exploration by England.
Anecdotes
- Believed he reached Asia when he landed on North America's coast, convinced he had found a direct route. Received a generous pension from the English king as a Reward for his "discovery." His voyages were funded by Italian bankers, showing the international Interest in his explorations.
- Recruited a multicultural crew, including Italians, Englishmen, and possibly Greeks, to embark on his bold transatlantic voyages.
- Received a pension and a title from the English crown, enticing him with Promises similar to those given to Columbus by Spain.
Magnitudes
- Seek unknown routes; embrace exploration’s uncertainty.
- Cultivate resilience; greatness demands unwavering persistence.
- Chart new territories by questioning accepted boundaries.
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