What significant consequence resulted from the voyages of explorers like Columbus and Vespucci?

The voyages of explorers such as Columbus and Vespucci marked the beginning of European colonization in the Americas, which had profound and lasting impacts on global history. Their expeditions led to the awareness of the New World among European powers, prompting exploration, conquest, and the establishment of colonies. This period initiated a significant transfer of resources, culture, and populations across the Atlantic, which fundamentally altered the social, economic, and political landscapes of both Europe and the Americas.

The establishment of colonies led to the exploitation of indigenous peoples and the introduction of transatlantic slave trade as Europeans sought to exploit natural resources, establish trade routes, and populate their colonies. This moment in history set the stage for centuries of interaction—and often conflict—between European settlers and Native American populations, shaping the historical narrative of the Americas.

Thus, the correct answer highlights a critical juncture in history that had far-reaching consequences not only for the Americas but also for European nations involved in exploration and colonization.