What expedition was funded by Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain to reach India by traveling west?

The Columbus Expedition is the correct choice because Christopher Columbus was commissioned by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain in 1492 to find a westward route to Asia, specifically India. Columbus believed that by sailing west across the Atlantic Ocean, he could reach the rich trade markets of Asia more directly than the overland routes or those around Africa. This expedition, rather than discovering a new continent, aimed to establish a new trade route that would benefit Spain economically. Columbus's voyage ultimately led to the European awareness of the Americas, but his original goal remained focused on finding a passage to India.

In contrast, the other options refer to different explorations or routes that do not fit the context:

• The Magellan Expedition was significant for circumnavigating the globe but took place later, under Ferdinand Magellan, and aimed to find a route to the Spice Islands, not directly to India.

• The Northwest Passage refers to a sought-after route that explorers pursued in the Arctic, which was never successfully navigated by Columbus.

• The Vasco da Gama Route pertains to the successful expedition by Vasco da Gama in the late 15th century that rounded Africa to reach India, which was a separate effort distinct from Columbus's expedition.

Thus,