This is a short history of the age of exploration and the conquest of
the Americas told through the experience of Bartolom de las Casas, a
Dominican friar who fervently defended the American Indians, and the
single most important figure of the period after Columbus.
- Explores the period known as the Encounter, which was characterized by
intensive conflict between Europeans and the people of the Americas
following Columbus's voyages
- Argues that Las Casas, "protector of Indians," was primarily motivated
by Scripture in his crusade for justice and equality for American
Indians
- Draws on the 14 volume Complete Works of Las Casas as a window into
his mind and actions
- Encourages students to understand history through the viewpoint of
individuals living it.