gainsaid, and the plan, so far in advance of his age, which he conceived
and carried through to success, forms one of the most interesting
experiments in colonization ever attempted anywhere.

* * * * *

This, then, is the story in briefest outline of the men who discovered
America and who fought for a foothold on her borders. Most of them, it
will be noted, undertook the struggle not for commercial ends nor from
the love of adventure, but in order to establish for themselves a home
where they would be free in matters of the spirit. The traces of that
purpose may be found on almost every page of American history and do
much to render it the inspiring thing it is. We shall see how many of
the great men who loom large in these pages traced their descent from
those hardy pioneers for whom no sacrifice seemed too great provided it
secured for them

"Freedom to worship God."




SUMMARY


COLUMBUS, CHRISTOPHER. Born at Genoa, Italy, probably in 1446; removed
to Portugal about 1473; laid plan to reach the Indies before John II.
of Portugal, 1484; appeared at court of Ferdinand and Isabella, 1485;
Spanish monarchs agreed to his demands, April 17, 1492; sailed from
Palos, August 3, 1492; discovered West Indies, October 12, 1492;