Relaciones y Cartas de Cristóbal Colón

What it is

This book is an 1892 Spanish edition gathering Columbus's own accounts of his first voyage and several of his letters, including correspondence to Spanish officials and to his brother. It is part of a series called Biblioteca Clásica.

Why it matters

These documents are primary sources written by Columbus himself, recording his voyages and reporting back to the Spanish crown. They show how Columbus communicated his discoveries and requests to those in power in Spain.

Look closer

• Why would Columbus write separate letters to different people, such as royal officials and his brother?
• What might be the purpose of including an index listing many letters and documents together?
• What can you learn about Columbus's voyages just from the titles of these letters?