Of the 300 Spanish explorers who set out to discover North America, only four returned. Cabeza de Vaca's account of the 1528-1536 expedition crackles with excitement, relating the survivors' journey across treacherous territory, rhapsodizing over the beauty of the American wilderness, and offering information on American Indian life before European influence. Unabridged republication of Cabeza de Vaca's Adventures in the Unknown Interior of America, Collier Books, New York, 1961.
Yucatan Before and After the Conquest by Diego de Landa Describes geography and natural history of the peninsula, gives brief history of Mayan life, discusses Spanish conquest, and provides a long summary of Maya civilization. 4 maps, and over 120 illustrations.
A Brief and True Report of the New Found Land of Virginia by Thomas Harriot Great classic of Americana, fascinating for European image of America. 1590 edition with 28 engravings by de Bry (from John White) of Indian villages, activities, dress, more.
