The conquistador Balboa is best known for having led the first party of explorers of European descent to reach the Pacific by traveling overland from the Atlantic. An ambitious man from a noble but relatively impoverished family, Balboa was eager to make a name and fortune for himself in the New World. His initiative and take-charge attitude helped him rise to power but also made him powerful enemies who, in the long run, orchestrated his trial and execution for usurping power. An assessment of Balboa's legacy and lasting impact conclude the book.