Martin Alonso Pinzón was a prominent Spanish navigator and explorer, best known for his role in the Christopher Columbus expeditions to the New World. Born around 1441 in Palos de la Frontera, he was a skilled sailor and played a crucial part in the planning and execution of Columbus's first voyage in 1492. Pinzón commanded the ship Niña, one of the three vessels in Columbus's fleet. His expertise in navigation and experience in maritime trade were vital to the success of the journey, which ultimately led to the European discovery of the Americas.