Please note: This is a companion version & not the original book. Sample Book Insights: #1 The story of Cabeza de Vaca and his companions has its origins in the Caribbean archipelago, where two partners dreamed of ruling a vast and wealthy colony on the mainland. They nearly succeeded, but a heartless betrayal caused their venture to unravel in the end. #2 Diego Velázquez, the governor of Cuba, was able to extract much more gold from his citizens than what the island could produce. He wanted to find a partner to help him claim these new lands for Spain. He chose Hernán Cortés, one of the original conquerors of Cuba. #3 Cortés's expedition was not an auspicious beginning. It began when Cortés left Cuba, leaving Velázquez shouting from the shore, and it ended when Narváez arrived in Spain to represent Diego Velázquez at court. #4 The court was a huge expense for the king, and it was only the first of many. The courtier was responsible for paying a veritable army of service providers: butchers, bakers, and winemakers for supplies; woodcutters for fuel to stay warm; shoemakers and tailors for elegant clothing; doormen who controlled access to the King; and royal servants who eased matters in his presence.