How did America get its name?
Quick Answer
The most common theory about the origin of America's name is that the country is named after Amerigo Vespucci, an Italian explorer who reached the New World in 1502. After returning to Florence, he suspected that Christopher Columbus was not correct in assuming that the land he explored was part of Japan and India. He produced a pamphlet describing the New World, which gained Vespucci a namesake.
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Another newer theory states that America was actually named after Richard Amerike, a merchant from Bristol. According to the theory, English fishermen originally bought and traded for salted cod from Iceland. Once the Danish king stopped the trade, the fishermen had to find an alternative fish source and made their way to Newfoundland, which is an island just off the coast of modern-day Canada. One of the merchants involved with this trade was Richard Amerike, shown in trading records and bills.
The theory goes on to state that the trip of explorer John Cabot to the New World was sponsored by Richard Amerike. Amerike's name was used on Cabot's map, which was then given to Columbus. All of this is found in a letter in the Spanish National Archives. Furthermore, Amerike's family crest is made up of the colors red, white and blue, accompanied by stars and stripes.
Learn more about US HistoryRelated Questions
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Q:
What did Amerigo Vespucci discover?
A: Amerigo Vespucci was the first explorer to reach continental lands in the Americas when he discovered the Amazon River and the sites of today's Rio de la P... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Is it true America was named after Amerigo Vespucci?
A: Both North and South America were named after Amerigo Vespucci, an Italian explorer and cartographer who sailed to the West Indies and South America severa... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What belongings did immigrants bring to America?
A: Since most immigrants came to America via ship and space was very limited, many brought only the types of items that would help them survive in the New Wor... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Why did the French come to America?
A: French explorers came to the New World, including America, to find a route to the Pacific Ocean and to establish a successful colonial empire. The goal in ... Full Answer >Filed Under:
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