The significance of the discovery of the Americas by Columbus in 1492 lies in its profound impact on world history. While Columbus was not the first to reach the Americas, his voyages established the first lasting European contact with the continent. This led to the Columbian Exchange, where goods, people, and ideas flowed between the New World and Europe, dramatically altering agricultural practices, diets, and economies on both sides. Additionally, Columbus's journey marked the beginning of European colonization and exploitation of the Americas, resulting in significant cultural and demographic shifts, the spread of diseases, and the destruction of native civilizations.