John Cabot

John Cabot, also known as Giovanni Caboto, was an Italian navigator and explorer active in the late 15th century.

John Cabot, also known as Giovanni Caboto, was an Italian navigator and explorer active in the late 15th century. He is best known for his 1497 voyage from England to North America, when he reached land in what is now eastern Canada and claimed it for King Henry VII. His 1498 expedition ended in uncertainty, and his final fate is not known.

Early life

Cabot was born in the 15th century, most often described as being from Genoa, though some sources note uncertainty about his exact birthplace. He later worked as a navigator in Mediterranean trade before moving into Atlantic exploration.

1497 voyage

In 1497, Cabot sailed from Bristol aboard the Matthew under a commission from Henry VII. He made landfall somewhere in North America, probably in eastern Canada, and took possession of the land for England.

1498 expedition and disappearance

Cabot led another voyage in 1498, but the outcome is unclear. He likely died or was lost at sea, and no confirmed record of his later years survives.

Historical significance

Cabot’s voyages strengthened English interest in North America and helped lay groundwork for later British claims to Canada. His expeditions are also remembered as early post-Viking European contact with the North American coast.