Juan de Zubileta facts for kids

Juan de Zubileta was one of the brave sailors who joined Ferdinand Magellan's amazing journey around the world. This incredible trip started in Seville, Spain, on August 10, 1519. Zubileta, who came from Barakaldo, was one of only eighteen men who managed to complete the entire expedition. They finally returned to Sanlúcar de Barrameda on September 6, 1522, aboard the ship Victoria.

A Journey Around the World

In the early 1500s, explorers were looking for new ways to reach the rich spice islands of the East. Ferdinand Magellan believed he could find a western route by sailing around the southern tip of South America. This was a very risky idea, as no one had ever sailed completely around the world before.

Who Was Juan de Zubileta?

Juan de Zubileta was a young man from a town called Barakaldo in Spain. He decided to join Magellan's fleet, hoping for adventure and to be part of a historic journey. He was one of the many sailors who signed up for this dangerous but exciting expedition.

The Great Expedition Begins

Magellan's fleet consisted of five ships: the Trinidad, San Antonio, Concepción, Santiago, and Victoria. Juan de Zubileta was likely a crew member on one of these ships. The journey began with great hopes, but it would soon face many challenges. The sailors had to deal with rough seas, unknown lands, and very little food.

Surviving the Voyage

The expedition sailed across the vast Atlantic Ocean and then found a way through the narrow Strait of Magellan at the bottom of South America. They then crossed the huge Pacific Ocean, which took many months. Many sailors died from hunger, sickness, or battles. Only the Victoria ship, led by Juan Sebastián Elcano after Magellan's death, made it back to Spain.

The First to Sail Around the Globe

Juan de Zubileta was one of the few lucky and strong survivors. Out of about 270 men who started the journey, only 18 returned on the Victoria. Their return proved that the Earth was round and that it was possible to sail all the way around it. This achievement changed maps and our understanding of the world forever.

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In Spanish: Juan de Zubileta para niños