Columbus's voyage in 1492 was significant as it marked the beginning of sustained European contact with the Americas. Sponsored by Spain, Columbus aimed to find a direct route to Asia but instead discovered islands in the Caribbean. His journey opened the door for the widespread exploration, conquest, and colonization of the Americas by European powers, leading to major cultural, economic, and demographic changes. It also initiated the transatlantic slave trade and the exchange of goods, ideas, and diseases, which had lasting effects on both the Old and New Worlds.