The Worlds of Christopher Columbus, Phillips, William D., Jr. & Carla Rahn Phillips. Published by Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1992. First Edition. 322pp. illustrated, charts, drawings, engravings, maps, index. Blue cloth boards with silver titles. Contents are in fine unread condition; light top edge sunning to front boards; light top edge ruffle to dustjacket
This work firmly places Columbus within the broader context of 200 years of earlier European maritime efforts aimed at gaining wealth through trade with Asia and expanding Christianity. By 1491, the geographical theory and navigational techniques had been well established, making a westward search for Asia inevitable. The authors perceive Columbus as one whose skills and perseverance made him the right man in the right time and place. They also delineate the enormous worldwide consequences of his fateful encounter with a “new world,” including the catastrophes let loose on its native population.
