Early Exploration

Essay by LeafsKessel81High School, 11th gradeA, February 2014

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Early Exploration

Early explorers seem to be somewhat forgotten today in our present world. What we must remember is that the explorers did not have easy methods of transportation back in the early centuries as we do now in the 21st century. With that being said, it was extremely tough to travel around the world with such little resources. It was basically either horse or boat, and both options had cons heavily outweighing the pros. The explorers were very brave men and at times they had to sacrifice a lot to explore. The Vikings were the first Europeans to make contact with the western world. The second group was lead by Christopher Columbus and the third to reach this "new world" was John Cabot. These men were all extremely vital in increasing knowledge of the land and therefore helping to populate the land.

Erik the Red and Leif Ericson are both highly recognized names when referring to early discoveries.

Erik the Red was exiled from Norway for three years in 982 and spent these years exploring. He was successful in doing this and is still remembered to this day for finding the first Nordic settlement in Greenland. When Erik returned to Iceland after his exile had expired, he is said to have brought with him stories of Greenland. His salesmanship proved to be successful as he convinced Vikings to settle in Greenland. Leif Ericson was born sometime around the 970's and was Erik the Reds son. He followed in his father's footsteps of being a successful explorer. Leif Ericson was the first ever European to step foot in North America (excluding Greenland of course). Leif's father was set to join him in what was soon to be an amazing trip; however when he fell off his horse on his...