In 1492, Christopher Columbus believed he had discovered a new route to Asia, particularly to the Indies (the East Indies, which include parts of Southeast Asia and India). He aimed to find a westward path to access the lucrative spice trade and other valuable goods. However, upon arriving in the Caribbean, he mistakenly thought he had reached islands off the coast of Asia. Columbus is often credited with the European discovery of the Americas, though he believed he was exploring the outskirts of Asia. His expeditions led to the widespread awareness of the Americas in Europe, which would have profound implications for world history.
Christopher Columbus's primary purpose for exploration was to identify a faster route for trading goods. Based on this world map from 1492, what did Columbus believe he had discovered?
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