Amerigo Vespucci Day

Amerigo Vespucci Day is an annual American holiday that commemorates the discoverer of America. It was thanks to Amerigo Vespucci that the Old World learned of the existence of previously unexplored lands. Without him, there might not have been a U.S., and the continent could have had a completely different name. The holiday is celebrated on March 9.

History

The celebration of Amerigo Vespucci Day began in March 1959, when New York Governor N.A. Rockefeller established the holiday. The birthday of the famous explorer and traveler was chosen as the day of celebration.

Amerigo Vespucci was born in Florence on March 9, 1454. A landmark sea voyage occurred in 1499, when he and his crew entered the Gulf of Maracaibo and visited the West Indies. On their return to Europe, 200 slaves (Native Americans) were brought back from the New World.

A repeat voyage to the shores of America occurred in the early 1500s. Thanks to Amerigo Vespucci, most of the territory of modern Brazil was surveyed.

Interesting Facts

• Christopher Columbus is often considered the discoverer of America. However, his data was not accurate because the discovery was an accident. Columbus originally wanted to find a new sea route to India but stumbled upon new continents. Amerigo cemented his success and proved the existence of new territories.
• The names of the two new continents are derived from the explorer’s name: Amerigo = America.
• Columbus personally asked the Spanish king to appoint A. Vespucci as head of the expedition to the new continents.

How to Celebrate

Find more interesting information about Amerigo Vespucci and the discovery of the new continent online. Attend various events, lectures, excursions, and museums to improve your knowledge of the topic.

Share about Amerigo Vespucci Day on social media. Let more people know about him.

When is Amerigo Vespucci Day in 2025?

Amerigo Vespucci Day is observed on March 9 each year.

Observations