Release date is 2023-09-05

Early years -- First plans of exploration -- In search of a patron -- He receives his commission -- He is commissioned, and sets sail -- The voyage -- The discovery -- Adventures on land -- The homeward voyage -- His reception and preparation for a second expedition -- Explorations in the West Indies -- Attempts at colonization -- Search for China; subjugation of Hispaniola -- Difficulties and discouragements -- His third expedition -- His return in disgrace -- His fourth expedition -- His last years -- His character and achievements.

hekula03 and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This book was produced from images made available by the HathiTrust Digital Library.)

"Christopher Columbus (1440–1506): The First American Citizen (by Adoption)" by William L. Alden is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This biography explores the life of Christopher Columbus, delving into his early years, ambitions, and the voyages that led to the discovery of the Americas. Alden presents Columbus not merely as a renowned explorer but also takes a unique stance by suggesting he can be considered the first American citizen by adoption. The opening of the book introduces readers to the complexities surrounding Columbus's birth and early life, highlighting the uncertain narratives surrounding his origins. Alden cleverly conveys the multiple claims to Columbus's birthplace and his early education and aspirations. The anecdotes about youthful adventures and misadventures provide insights into Columbus’s character and hint at the determination that would drive his later explorations. These early chapters set the stage for Columbus's aspirations to explore uncharted territories, as he begins to form ideas of sailing westward to find new lands, which would eventually lead to his historic voyages across the Atlantic. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Originally published: New York: Henry Holt and Company, 1881