Ferdinand Magellan is recognized as the first person to circumnavigate the globe. He embarked on his expedition in 1519 under the Spanish flag, aiming to find a westward route to the Spice Islands. Although Magellan himself did not complete the journey—he was killed in the Philippines in 1521—his expedition continued under the command of Juan Sebastián Elcano. They successfully returned to Spain in 1522, proving that the Earth could be circumnavigated by sea. This voyage had significant implications for global trade and navigation, paving the way for further exploration.