Demonstrating that Columbus\'s voyage was a new step in a centuries-old process of European expansion, Fernandez-Armesto provides a stimulating account of the broadening of Europe\'s physical and mental horizons in the Middle Ages.
Then, concentrating.
A brief introduction analyzes the problems that face students and historians.
He shows how the techniques and institutions of medieval colonial expansion that were applied to the New World made long-term conquest and settlement possible.
Demonstrating that Columbus\'s voyage was a new step in a centuries-old process of European expansion, Fernandez-Armesto provides a stimulating account of the broadening of Europe\'s physical and mental horizons in the Middle Ages