President Polk wanted California but knew Mexico would not agree to sell it and his only avenue was to start a war (knowing the US would win it).
Economy, religion and glory
Christopher Columbus first arrived in the Americas during 1492, taking the three ships, the Nina, the Pinta, and the Santa Maria.
He sailed to the Americas hoping to find a new trade route to India, from Britain, to be able to trade spices over the sea, rather than making the long trek across Asia.
He made four voyages exploring the Americas in his lifespan.
