Major Explorers
Grade 7 · Social Studies · Age of Exploration · Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Lesson Summary
Learn about the key explorers who sailed to new lands and changed the map of the world.
Explanation
Christopher Columbus sailed west from Spain in 1492 and reached the Caribbean, opening the Americas to European contact. Vasco da Gama found a sea route from Portugal to India by sailing around Africa. Ferdinand Magellan's expedition was the first to circumnavigate (sail around) the globe, though Magellan himself died during the journey. Hernán Cortés conquered the Aztec Empire, and Francisco Pizarro conquered the Inca Empire. Each explorer's journey had profound consequences for the peoples they encountered.
Practice Questions
Q1: What did Christopher Columbus accomplish in 1492?
Answer: He sailed west from Spain and reached the Caribbean, establishing contact between Europe and the Americas (though he believed he had reached Asia).
Q2: Who led the first expedition to circumnavigate the globe?
Answer: Ferdinand Magellan led the expedition, though he died in the Philippines and his crew completed the journey.
Q3: What route did Vasco da Gama find?
Answer: Vasco da Gama found a sea route from Portugal to India by sailing around the southern tip of Africa.
People Also Ask
What is Major Explorers in Grade 7 Social Studies?+
Major Explorers is a lesson in the Age of Exploration chapter of Grade 7 Social Studies. It is part of the Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada school curriculum and covers key concepts that students need to understand at this level.
What grade level covers Major Explorers?+
Major Explorers is taught in Grade 7 as part of the Social Studies curriculum in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.
How can I help my child with Age of Exploration in Social Studies?+
Start with the lesson summary and explanation on this page. Practice the questions provided, then use TutorTom for personalized, step-by-step help with Age of Exploration topics.