The Northmen, Columbus and Cabot, 985-1503

This volume gathers the earliest eyewitness accounts of the people who first set foot on North America, from the Norse sailings of the 10th century to the daring expeditions of Columbus and John Cabot at the turn of the 16th century. Each narrative is presented in a faithful reproduction of the original text, accompanied by modern translations where needed, so listeners can hear the words of the explorers themselves. Helpful introductions explain the authors’ backgrounds and the historical significance of their reports, while concise scholarly notes clarify obscure references.

Richly illustrated with period maps, the collection lets listeners picture the icy coasts of Vinland, the Atlantic routes to the Caribbean, and the rugged shores of Newfoundland as the early mariners saw them. The editors have taken great care to preserve typographical quirks of the source material, offering a sense of authenticity that brings the centuries‑old documents to life. Whether you’re a student of history or simply curious about America’s first chapters, this anthology provides a vivid window onto the daring voyages that shaped the continent.