Bartholomew Columbus was an Italian explorer and the younger brother of Christopher Columbus. Born in 1461 in Genoa, Italy, he played a significant role in the early exploration of the Americas. Bartholomew accompanied his brother on several voyages and was involved in the establishment of settlements in the New World. In addition to his explorations, Bartholomew served as the governor of the island of Hispaniola for a time. He also sought to promote further exploration and settlement in the Americas, advocating for the establishment of trade routes and the spread of Christianity among indigenous peoples.