John Cabot was a Venetian navigator and explorer, who lived in England. He got a commission from King Henry VII to make an expedition to North America. It was the first European encounter with the North American continent since Leif Eriksson and the Vikings explored the area they called ‘Vinland’ in the 11th century.
John Cabot was skilled in navigational techniques, and he seemed to have been inspired by Christopher Columbus. He researched the possibility of reaching Asia by sailing westward.
In 1496, the king granted permission to John Cabot to set out on an expedition of discovery and to open up more trading posts.
Cabot sailed out of Bristol on a small ship, but had to return soon.
Later, in May 1497, he set out on another voyage. The expedition made landfall in the Newfoundland. He took possession of the land for the English King.
When Cabot arrived back to Bristol, he received a hearty welcome. On that occasion, Cabot announced his plan to set out on another voyage to Newfoundland, and to Japan which was regarded as the haven of spices.