The Origin of America

Ever wonder how America got its name? You might believe the popular myth that America is named after the famous Italian cartographer and explorer Amerigo Vespucci. After all, he was notable in his time and his first name is strikingly similar. But America is not named after him.

Instead, the honor goes to the much lesser-known figure, Richard Amerike (also known as Ameryk). He was a very wealthy merchant in Bristol who originally hailed from Wales. He was a major investor for the explorations headed up by John Cabot.

The English explorer Cabot arrived in Bristol on May 20, 1497, and brought with him a letter of marque signed by King Henry VII, authorizing him to sail on behalf of the English monarchy.

Cabot led a voyage to what is now Newfoundland and Labrador. In an expedition lasting from 1497 to 1498, he explored the coastline, seeking a route to China. He returned with little more than stories of codfish and local legends of the area.

But there is a record in the Bristol Calendar in 1497 that makes reference to the discovery of new lands, and they are referred to for the first time as “America.” It’s the earliest known use of the word.