Leif Ericsson (c. 970 – 1020) was a historical figure, son of Eric the Red who colonized Greenland. Leif sailed further west and established the colony of Vinland in 1002/1003. While the colony was abandoned within a few years of its settlement, its remains were discovered in L’Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland, Canada. It is the earliest known European settlement in North America.
