Christopher Columbus’s 1492 Voyage to the New World

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Scavenger Hunt Quiz

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  1. From which small Spanish port town on the Atlantic coast did Columbus’s first voyage officially depart in August 1492?
  2. At which stop did Columbus pause to repair his ships and catch favorable winds near volcanic islands off the northwest coast of Africa?
  3. Which stretch of ocean is described as a quiet region filled with floating seaweed where the winds sometimes slowed, worrying Columbus’s crew?
  4. At which island did Columbus first make landfall in the Americas, where he met Taíno people and claimed the land for Spain?
  5. Which stop describes another Bahamian island where Columbus continued exploring, noticing clear waters, coral reefs, and signs of trade between islands?
  6. Which stop explains how Columbus explored a long coastline he believed might be part of Asia, where he saw smoke from villages and rich green hills?
  7. At which island did the ship Santa María run aground, leading Columbus to build a small settlement called La Navidad using the remains of the ship?
  8. Which stop describes islands in the mid-Atlantic where Columbus was blown off course during his return, and where he briefly landed before sailing back to mainland Europe?
  9. Which European port city did Columbus enter unexpectedly on his return due to storm damage, where Portuguese officials questioned him about his discoveries?
  10. Which city is described as the place where Columbus finally met with King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella to report on his voyage and display the objects he had brought back?