Who discovered the Americas in 1492?

The correct answer is Christopher Columbus, who is credited with the discovery of the Americas in 1492 during his first voyage sponsored by the Spanish crown. Columbus aimed to find a new route to Asia but instead landed in the Bahamas, marking the beginning of significant European exploration and colonization of the Americas. His expedition opened up the continent to European powers, leading to widespread impact on the indigenous populations and the establishment of European settlements.

Other historical figures mentioned in the options have their own significance. For instance, Leif Erikson is known for his early exploration of North America around the year 1000, predating Columbus by several centuries, but he did not have the same lasting impact or recognition that Columbus did. Ferdinand Magellan, who is known for leading the first expedition to circumnavigate the globe, embarked on his famous journey in 1519, which is after Columbus's voyage. Amerigo Vespucci played a crucial role in understanding the geography of the New World, and the continent is named after him, but he did not discover the Americas, as his voyages occurred after Columbus's initial encounters.