Christopher Columbus first reached the Americas in the year 1492. On his initial voyage, which was funded by Spain, Columbus set sail in search of a westward route to Asia but instead stumbled upon the islands of the Caribbean, specifically landing in what is now the Bahamas. His arrival marked the beginning of sustained European contact with the Americas, leading to significant historical, cultural, and demographic changes across the continent. Columbus' voyages had far-reaching consequences, paving the way for the exploration and colonization of the Americas by European powers and ultimately reshaping global history.