Which explorer is known for mapping the eastern coast of North America and seeking trade routes?

Giovanni da Verrazzano is known for his exploration of the eastern coast of North America in the early 16th century. His voyages, conducted under the commission of King Francis I of France from 1524 to 1528, aimed to find a westward sea route to Asia and to establish trade opportunities for France. Verrazzano's journeys led him to significant landmarks along the Atlantic coast, including present-day New York Harbor, and he is credited with providing some of the earliest European maps of the eastern American coastline.

His efforts significantly contributed to the European understanding of North America’s geography and helped lay the groundwork for future exploration and colonization. While other explorers also made important contributions to mapping North American coasts and seeking trade routes, Verrazzano's work is particularly noted for its focus on the eastern seaboard and its implications for establishing French interests in the New World.