Columbus first presented his plan to reach the Indies by sailing westward to King John II of Portugal. A panel of experts rejected his proposal, citing inaccuracies in his calculations regarding the distance to Asia and the feasibility of the voyage. They were also pursuing their own route around Africa.

After Portugal rejected his plan, Columbus moved to Spain, hoping to secure support from the Spanish monarchs, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. He initially struggled to gain their attention, as Spain was focused on the Reconquista, the reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula from the Moors.

Columbus spent several years lobbying the Spanish monarchs for their support. His proposal was repeatedly reviewed and rejected by royal committees due to doubts about its feasibility and Columbus's demands for titles and rewards. During this time, he relied on the patronage of influential individuals, including Friar Juan Perez and Luis de Santangel.

The final victory of the Reconquista, the fall of Granada, liberated resources and attention, making Ferdinand and Isabella more amenable to Columbus's proposition. This key event shifted their priorities and created an opportunity for Columbus to secure their support.

After lengthy negotiations, Columbus signed the Capitulations of Santa Fe with Ferdinand and Isabella. This agreement granted him the titles of Admiral of the Ocean Sea, Viceroy, and Governor of all lands he discovered. It also entitled him to a tenth of all the wealth obtained from these lands. These generous terms were crucial in motivating Columbus and securing his commitment to the voyage.