Why is the year 1492 significant in world history?

The significance of the year 1492 in world history primarily stems from Christopher Columbus's journey across the Atlantic Ocean, leading to his landing in the Americas. This event marked a pivotal moment in history as it opened up a new world for European exploration and colonization. The discovery of the Americas by Columbus initiated extensive exchange between Europe and the New World, which included the transfer of goods, culture, and populations, known as the Columbian Exchange. This exchange profoundly impacted the global economy, ecology, and culture.

In addition to its historical importance in terms of exploration, the ramifications of Columbus's voyages had often devastating effects on indigenous populations in the Americas, leading to significant social and demographic changes. Moreover, 1492 set in motion centuries of European ventures across the oceans that would reshape world history, establishing colonial empires that would dominate much of the globe.

While other events mentioned in the options may have their own historical significance, they do not carry the same immediate and transformative weight in shaping the ensuing global landscape as Columbus's discovery did in 1492. The Renaissance, for example, was already underway prior to 1492, and the Reformation began in the early 16th century, while the Viking Age's influence was primarily felt in earlier