Vikings, notably led by the Norse explorer Leif Erikson, are credited with sailing to North America around 1000 AD, specifically landing in regions that are now recognized as Newfoundland, Canada. This voyage is significant as it marks one of the earliest known instances of European exploration of the continent. Historical records and archaeological findings, particularly at L'Anse aux Meadows, provide evidence of Norse settlement in North America, revealing artifacts and structures indicative of Viking presence. Erikson’s expedition followed earlier voyages by his father, Erik the Red, who established settlements in Greenland. The Norse exploration of North America highlights their advanced seafaring capabilities and their role in the broader narrative of exploration and contact between different cultures. The legacy of these voyages challenges traditional narratives of discovery, emphasizing the Vikings' significant contributions to early transcontinental interactions and their exploration of lands far beyond their Scandinavian origins.