Description: Maps unfold to trace the paths of great explorers such as Marco Polo, Columbus, and Magellan. These vividly detailed maps capture the historical background and fascinating stories behind their journeys. For example, maps depicting the bloody conquests of the conquistadors also introduce readers to the Inca and Aztec civilizations. Readers will also encounter lesser-known stories, such as the journeys of countless unnamed settlers during the American westward expansion, and the exploration and settlement of Australia. Intricate illustrations bring to life the customs of different eras and regions, the creatures that inhabited them, and the lives of the native peoples encountered along these explorers' routes. Chapter 1. The Vikings Reach America / Were the Vikings Invaders or Skilled Traders? Chapter 2. Marco Polo's Silk Road Expedition / The Explorations of the Chinese Chapter 3. Ibn Battuta's Great Islamic Journey / The Origins and Culture of Islam Chapter 4. Columbus Discovers the New World / The Conquest of the Americas Chapter 5. Vasco da Gama Opens the Sea Route to India / The Age of Great Geographical Discoveries Chapter 6. Magellan's Voyage Around the World / Records of Circumnavigation Chapter 7. Pizarro Conquers the Inca Empire / Descendants of the Sun Chapter 8. La Salle's Exploration of the Mississippi River / Beyond the North American Continent Chapter 9. Captain Cook's Voyage to the South Pacific / Captain Cook's Great Expeditions Chapter 10. Livingstone and Stanley Explore Africa / The Dark Continent of Africa Chapter 11. Westward Along the Oregon Trail / The Age of Westward Expansion and the Gold Rush Chapter 12. The Crossing of the Australian Continent / Explorers of Australia Chapter 13. Shackleton's Escape from Antarctica / Expeditions to the Polar Regions Chapter 14. The Kon-Tiki, Tracing the Footsteps of the Polynesians / Ancient Explorers