Which islands were first sighted by Columbus?

The correct answer is that Columbus first sighted Cayman Brac and Little Cayman during his exploration in 1503. When Columbus was navigating through the Caribbean, he encountered these smaller islands in the Cayman archipelago, which he named "Las Tortugas" due to the large number of sea turtles he observed in the surrounding waters. This moment is significant as it marks the initial European contact with the Cayman Islands.

These islands were not as heavily populated or developed at the time of Columbus's exploration compared to the larger island of Grand Cayman, which was later settled more extensively. The history of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman has often been tied closely through their early sighting and naming by Columbus, recognizing them for their distinct geographical characteristics among the Caymans.

Columbus's journey was pivotal in establishing European awareness of this region, and understanding which specific islands he encountered provides insight into the early history of the Cayman Islands and influences on subsequent exploration and settlement.