European explorers in the 15th-16th centuries were motivated to explore Asia and other regions in search of trade routes for valuable spices and silks, sparked by Marco Polo's accounts of Asia and aided by new navigational techniques. Notable explorers included Vasco da Gama, who reached India by sailing around Africa in 1498 and established Portugal's sea route to Asia; Christopher Columbus, whose 1492 voyage for Spain led to his landing in the Americas believing he found a route to Asia; and others who explored North America like John Cabot, Jacques Cartier, and Henry Hudson seeking routes to Asia for England and other European powers.

1. European Explorers