Which explorer made four voyages to the "New World"?

Christopher Columbus is recognized for making four significant voyages to the "New World," an area he initially encountered in 1492. His journeys were crucial in establishing the first lasting European contact with the Americas. Columbus set sail under the Spanish flag with the intent to find a westward route to Asia. Instead, he landed in the Bahamas and explored parts of the Caribbean, which he believed to be islands off the coast of Asia. Over the course of his four voyages, he would explore various islands in the Caribbean, parts of Central America, and the northern coasts of South America.

The impact of Columbus's expeditions was monumental, as they opened the door for the widespread exploration and eventual colonization of the Americas by European powers, leading to significant cultural exchanges and transformations in both the New World and Europe. His voyages marked the beginning of sustained European exploration and the subsequent age of colonialism.

In contrast, while Ponce de Leon and Hernan Cortes were also notable Spanish explorers, Ponce de Leon is mainly known for his exploration of Florida and the search for the Fountain of Youth, which involved just one notable expedition. Hernan Cortes is recognized for his conquest of the Aztec Empire, focusing primarily on Mexico rather than initiating multiple