The continent often referred to as the "New World" is the Americas. This term originated during the Age of Exploration in the late 15th century when European explorers, such as Christopher Columbus, made contact with previously unknown lands in North and South America. Distinct from the "Old World," which comprises Europe, Asia, and Africa, the New World includes a diverse range of cultures, ecosystems, and histories. Today, the term is often used in a historical context to signify the profound impact of European exploration and colonization on the indigenous populations of the Americas.