Era of Exploration An Hispanic History 1400-1600

Forming the narrative for America’s impending quincentenary.

This fascinating ‘history collection gift’ was issued by Sears, Roebuck, & Company in 1989 as part of the impending nationwide celebration of America’s quincentenary. A dedicatory summary informs us the company was “pleased to provide these materials and hope that they will help explain the forces that shaped our nation 500 years ago, as well as the significance of the explorers and their impact on the lives of American citizens today.” The 8.5″ x 11″ sheet is accompanied by four large posters:

Era of Exploration An Hispanic History 1400 – 1600 – 32.5″ x 22″. Illustrated by Dan Lotts, with historical consultant by Barbara Tenenbaum. Described as a ‘one page book’ that ‘depicts the major peoples, places, and events of the early Spanish explorations of this continent and the many contributions made during those years to the establishment of our rich Hispanic culture.’ A chronology of major events covers Prince Henry the Navigator (1415) to the Franciscan order in Arizona (1600) and the verso offers short biographies of explorers and conquistadores.

The Columbus Papers – The Barcelona Letter of 1493 – A photographic reproduction and accompanying translation of the 4 page letter Columbus dispatched to the Spanish court after his return from the New World. Only one copy of the original edition is known to exist, at the New York Public Library. On a sheet 32.5″ x 22″.

“America” by Jodocus Hondius – A reproduction of the c. 1630 map by Hondius, a decorative depiction of early colonial America.

“America” by Theodore de Bry – A reproduction of De Bry’s influential 1598 map and a spectacular visual commemoration of Columbus, Magellan, Pizzaro, and Vespucci.