Most students know the basic facts about the voyages of Christopher Columbus, but this biography of his life isolates his lesser-known characteristics, such as his boastful nature and obsessive drive to reach the West Indies. It also chronicles the events leading to his eventual fall from grace in the court of Spain. Lengthy captions and primary source material reveal detailed facts about the explorer, his thoughts, and his first impressions of the New World. This is an illuminating book that enlivens a familiar history.