Which Italian explorer is credited with the exploration of San Salvador while intending to reach India?

The exploration of San Salvador is attributed to Christopher Columbus, who embarked on his voyages across the Atlantic Ocean in 1492 with the aim of finding a westward route to India. Columbus believed that by sailing west, he could reach the lucrative spice trade routes of Asia. Instead, he encountered the Caribbean islands, including San Salvador, which is part of the Bahamas. This exploratory expedition led to significant and lasting impacts on both the Old World and the New World, marking the beginning of European colonization in the Americas.

The other figures listed are notable explorers and figures in history but were not involved in the exploration of San Salvador. Juan Ponce de Leon, for example, is known for his exploration of Florida, while Hernando Cortes was primarily known for his conquest of the Aztec Empire. Atahualpa, on the other hand, was the last emperor of the Inca Empire and was not an explorer. Thus, Christopher Columbus stands out as the correct answer due to his specific actions that led to the European awareness of the Americas.