Juan rodriguez cabrillo born

DanAugust 31, 2023

Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, a historical figure born around 1499, was a Portuguese explorer who came to serve the interests of Spain in the Age of Exploration.

While his birthplace remains uncertain, Cabrillo is renowned for leading the first European expedition to explore the western coast of what is now the United States. Prior to his renowned voyage, he participated in expeditions under the command of notable explorers like Pedro Alvarado and Hernán Cortés in the New World.

In 1542, Cabrillo embarked on a momentous journey from Navidad, New Spain (present-day Mexico), that took him up the Pacific coast of North America.

This expedition, which played a pivotal role in early European contacts with the region, brought him to significant points such as San Diego Bay and the Channel Islands. Traversing the rugged coastline, he reached as far north as what is believed to be modern-day Oregon, leaving a lasting mark o