Western explorers were individuals from Europe and later North America who ventured into unknown territories during the Age of Exploration, roughly from the 15th to the 17th centuries. They sought new trade routes, resources, and lands, often driven by the desire for wealth and knowledge. Notable figures include Christopher Columbus, who sailed across the Atlantic in 1492, and Ferdinand Magellan, who led the first expedition to circumnavigate the globe. These explorers played a significant role in mapping the world and expanding European influence. Their journeys often led to the discovery of new lands, such as North America and Australia, and initiated contact with indigenous peoples, which had lasting impacts on global history and cultures.