Final answer:
Columbus' expedition was not immediately appreciated but gained recognition for its economic impact and the Columbian Exchange after his death, amidst ongoing debate and historical reassessment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Christopher Columbus' expedition in 1492 was not immediately appreciated; rather, its true value and consequences unfolded over time. Initially, Columbus struggled to find financial backing due to his miscalculation of the Earth's size and the availability of alternative routes to Asia. While Spain's monarchs did support him in the hope of gaining access to Asian wealth, they and other Europeans did not fully grasp the significance of his landing in the Americas until later. His accomplishments became more appreciated after his journey had revealed the monetary benefits through the exchange of goods, which became known as the Columbian Exchange. However, the positive outcomes for Europeans were contrasted by the devastating impact on indigenous populations due to diseases introduced by the Europeans. Ultimately, Columbus's voyages did lead to significant changes in global economics and agriculture, which were only fully recognized after his death and have continued to be a subject of debate and historical analysis.