1. Marco Polo
Italian explorer known for his travels to Asia along the Silk Road, introducing Europeans to the wonders of the East.
2. Christopher Columbus
Renowned for his voyages across the Atlantic, leading to the discovery of the Americas and opening up new trade routes.
3. Vasco da Gama
Portuguese explorer who established a sea route to India, revolutionizing global trade and navigation.
4. Ferdinand Magellan
First to circumnavigate the globe, proving the Earth was round and expanding knowledge of world geography.
5. Captain James Cook
British explorer who mapped uncharted territories in the Pacific Ocean, contributing to the understanding of the region.
6. Ibn Battuta
Moroccan explorer known for his extensive travels across Africa, Asia, and Europe, documenting diverse cultures.
7. Zheng He
Chinese admiral who led maritime expeditions to Southeast Asia, India, and Africa, promoting Chinese influence.
8. Amerigo Vespucci
Italian explorer who realized the Americas were a separate landmass, leading to the continent being named after him.
9. Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay
First to reach the summit of Mount Everest, showcasing human endurance and pushing the limits of exploration.
10. Neil Armstrong
Astronaut who became the first person to walk on the moon, marking a significant milestone in space exploration.