3rd Grade History & Social Studies — Explorers and Settlers — God's Hand in the New World
Students will learn how Christopher Columbus believed God called him to sail west and how his faith guided his famous voyage in 1492.
Christopher Columbus was born in Genoa, Italy, in 1451. He grew up near the sea and loved ships and sailing. Columbus studied the Bible and believed God had a special plan for his life.
Columbus believed he could reach Asia by sailing west across the Atlantic Ocean. Many people thought he was wrong, but Columbus trusted God and kept trying. After years of asking, Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand of Spain agreed to pay for his voyage.
On August 3, 1492, Columbus set sail with three ships: the Niña, the Pinta, and the Santa María. After many weeks at sea, his sailors were afraid and wanted to turn back. Columbus prayed and encouraged them to keep going.
On October 12, 1492, they spotted land! Columbus had reached islands in the Caribbean Sea. He knelt on the shore, thanked God, and planted a cross. Columbus wrote in his journal that he believed God had guided him to this new land.
Columbus's voyage opened the door for Europeans to learn about the New World. God used Columbus's faith and courage to change the course of history.
On a map, trace the route Columbus took from Spain across the Atlantic Ocean. Color the three ships and label each one: Niña, Pinta, and Santa María.