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For This Reason, America Became the Name of the New Continent

By madridmandez@gmail.com / October 23, 2024

The naming of the Americas is a captivating historical tale that traces back to early explorers. While Christopher Columbus is often credited with “discovering” the New World, the name America comes from a lesser-known explorer, Amerigo Vespucci.

Who Was Amerigo Vespucci?

Amerigo Vespucci was an Italian explorer who sailed to the New World around the same time as Columbus. What set Vespucci apart was that he was the first to suggest that the lands discovered by Columbus were not part of Asia, as initially believed, but a new continent altogether.

Why the Name “America”?

In recognition of Vespucci’s realization, the new continent was named “America” in his honor. The name first appeared on a world map in 1507, created by the German cartographer Martin Waldseemüller, who proposed calling the landmass after Vespucci. This decision solidified the name for both North and South America.

Conclusion

The Americas were named not after the first person to land there, but after the one who understood its true significance. Amerigo Vespucci‘s insight into the existence of a new continent earned him this lasting legacy.

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