Human beings are always full of the spirit of discovery. Zhang Qian was an excellent official and explorer in Chinese history. He went on two (trip) to the Western regions. He opened up a very important route—the ancient Silk Road and (bring) back information. Besides, he introduced many things were seen for the first time. Zhang played a very important role in taking China to the world of commercial (商业的) trade. Christopher Columbus was an Italian navigator (航海家). (bear) in the 15th century, he (rise) to become a great navigator. At that time, many (Europe) countries became stronger and stronger. Their ships reached Africa and Asia. They got gold, silver, silk, tea and other things from the east. Columbus wanted to make another way to China and India. On 3rd August, 1492, Columbus left Spain and began his (one) voyage. After about two (month) hard sailing, he and his fleet got to an island in the Bahamas. On 28th October, they reached Cuba and he thought it was Asia. They went back to Spain on 15th March, 1493. Although they didn't get to the Orient or bring back wealth, they found a new place—the American Continents, which is also known the New World. From 1492 1504, he completed four voyages across the Atlantic Ocean. He reached most of the coast of South America and set up many colonies (殖民地).
