The urge to explore is an ancient one in the human species. The earliest explorations were driven by physical needs like food and shelter. But later with greater resources at their disposal; human beings became curious about their extended geographical environment and began to venture further from their safe zone. Over time mankind began to recognize that with successful exploration came rewards. In fact access to virgin natural resources was one of the driving factors behind the Golden Age of Exploration during the 15th and 16th centuries when many significant discoveries were made about the geography of the Earth. Again in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries; much of the exploration of Africa and Asia were driven by the need to discover and colonize new markets for goods made by European countries. The 20 Greatest Explorers of the World traces these currents in the journey of human exploration by focusing on the most famous explorers in history as well as some lesser known names who are nevertheless responsible for charting new territories. Ranging from classical Greece to the mid twentieth century; traversing all parts of the globe and indeed beyond it; these explorers are testament to the fact that the desire to know and discover has inspired humans across time and space in history.

Penetrating biographies written by a group of distinguished travel writers, broadcasters, and historians reveal the lives, motives, and passions of forty major explorers in history. It has always been mankind’s gift, or curse, to be inquisitive, and through the ages people have been driven to explore the limits of the worlds known to them—and beyond. Here are the stories of forty of the world’s greatest explorers from Europe, America, Asia, and Australia. These are men and women who changed our perception of the world through their courageous adventures. Organized thematically, the book opens with the oceanic journeys of five hundred years ago, when the great era of recorded exploration began. The following sections look at The Land, Rivers, Polar Ice, Deserts, Life on Earth, and New Frontiers. Many of these explorers recounted their journeys in vivid firsthand accounts; others were superb artists or photographers. The book features quotes from their journals and reports, and it is illustrated with paintings, photographs, engravings, and maps, so that we can experience their adventures through their own eyes and in their own words. Featured explorers include: Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, James Cook, Lewis and Clark, Richard Burton, Samuel de Champlain, David Livingstone, Roald Amundsen, Gertrude Bell, Alexander von Humboldt, Yuri Gagarin, and Jacques-Yves Cousteau.

Includes extracts from Columbus's journal of his first voyage. Includes Cortes's letter to King Charles V describing Tenochtitlan and the Aztec Empire. Includes passages from Antonio Pigafetta, a member of Magellan's crew. Includes descriptions of both the Aztec and Inca Empires. Includes pictures of the explorers and important Includes a Bibliography for further reading. *Includes a Table of Contents. Marco Polo was hardly the only European merchant or trader who traveled to the Far East, but it was his written account of his travels that would generate extreme interest in Asia. Having described such a rich land full of desired resources, Marco Polo's travels became a source for European cartographers of the era, and they became the impetus for men like Christopher Columbus, who added his own annotations to Marco Polo's account and used it as a reference for his own legendary expedition in search of the Far East. Centuries later, historians have scoured over the account and what was written in an effort to validate its authenticity, leading to sharp debates today. The most seminal event of the last millennium might also be its most controversial. As schoolchildren have been taught for over 500 years, "In 1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue." In October of that year, the Italian Christopher Columbus immortalized himself by landing in the New World and beginning the process of European settlement in the Americas for Spain, bringing the Age of Exploration to a new hemisphere with him. Ironically, the Italian had led a Spanish expedition, in part because the Portugese rejected his offers in the belief that sailing west to Asia would take too long. Today Ferdinand Magellan is remembered as the first man to circumnavigate the globe, an ironic legacy given that he died half a world away from completing that journey. But though it ended catastrophically for Magellan and most of his crew, his expedition accomplished its objective, and in economic terms, the opening up of new trade routes with Asia was a more significant development than the conquest of the Americas for the Europeans of the early 16th century. The life of Sir Francis Drake, or, more precisely, the tale of it, is one of those prime examples that history is written by the winners. Drake was the most famous sailor of the Elizabethan Era, and he has long been considered a hero by the English. His successes against the Spanish as a captain and a privateer were legendary, and Drake was celebrated for fighting the Queen's enemies, sinking their ships, and capturing the treasure that would otherwise be used to finance attacks on England. Drake vigorously pursued every mission given to him by Elizabeth I, and brought all his skill, experience and training to bear against her enemies. He was recognized at court for his valor, praised in story and song, and remembered for the kind of personality and esprit de corps that the English have long desired and celebrated in their military heroes.

Provides twenty-two step-by-step projects to help readers learn about the explorers that discovered America and their voyages.

Relates the enterprises and discoveries of twelve explorers, including Vasco da Gama, Captain James Cook, and Roald Amundsen.

Embark on an inspiring journey through the cosmos with "20 Greatest Astronauts of the World" by Monika Koli. In this captivating book, Koli profiles the remarkable achievements and groundbreaking contributions of twenty extraordinary individuals who have ventured beyond the bounds of Earth. As you delve into the pages of "20 Greatest Astronauts of the World," be prepared to be inspired by tales of courage, determination, and the pioneering spirit of exploration. Koli's insightful profiles offer readers a glimpse into the lives of these space pioneers and cosmic explorers. But here's the question that lingers in the vastness of space: What if the legacy of these astronauts extends beyond their individual achievements, shaping the future of humanity's journey into the cosmos? Could their bravery and innovation inspire the next generation of space explorers to reach even greater heights? Engage with Koli's compelling narratives as she celebrates the accomplishments of these remarkable individuals and explores the challenges they faced on their journey to the stars. Through her detailed research and engaging storytelling, Koli invites readers to discover the human stories behind the headlines. Are you ready to be inspired by the extraordinary achievements of the world's greatest astronauts? Allow yourself to be captivated by the tales of courage and exploration in "20 Greatest Astronauts of the World," where each profile offers a glimpse into the awe-inspiring world of space travel. Join Koli as she celebrates the pioneers who dared to venture beyond the confines of our planet. Here's your invitation to celebrate the spirit of exploration and discovery with Monika Koli's "20 Greatest Astronauts of the World." Will you accept the challenge to learn from the past and inspire the future? Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience this tribute to the heroes of space exploration. Purchase your copy of "20 Greatest Astronauts of the World" now, and let the stories of these cosmic adventurers inspire you to reach for the stars.

Impressive in size, scope and detail unparalleled in the market, the 2020 Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1901-2000, provides the most compelling and complete catalog to 20th Century coins in the world. You've come to rely on this mammoth reference for the most up-to-date pricing and coin detail, as well as the most complete and insightful review of available and collectable world coins. A worldwide network of 120 experts continues to uncover collector coin issues never before published. For the collector or researcher attempting to identify world coins, this is the perfect single source. Inside this one-of-a-kind catalog, you'll find: • One million accurate coin prices--empowering you to make informed buying or selling decisions. • MS65 and PR65 values for much of the catalog • Detailed coin information unmatched in the hobby, making identification a snap • 60,000+ images, making the catalog the most visual reference on the market • Globally accepted KM reference numbers key to identification What's more, coins struck in gold, platinum and silver are detailed with: • Total coin weight • Fineness • Actual precious metal weight

World's Top Explorers who Change the World - Selected Books Kit By Kalyani Mookherji (Top 5 Explorers of the World + 7 Explorers who Change the World + 5 Greatest Explorers of the World) by Kalyani Mookherji: This captivating selected books kit presents a comprehensive exploration of the lives and achievements of some of the world's most influential explorers. Authored by Kalyani Mookherji, these books delve into the extraordinary journeys and discoveries of the top explorers who have left an indelible mark on history. Top 5 Explorers of the World: In this book, readers will discover the stories of the top five explorers whose expeditions and adventures have inspired generations. Kalyani Mookherji presents the remarkable journeys of these explorers and their contributions to expanding human knowledge and understanding. 7 Explorers who Change the World: This book narrates the tales of seven explorers who not only discovered new lands and territories but also impacted the world in profound ways. Kalyani Mookherji sheds light on the diverse achievements of these explorers and their lasting legacies. 5 Greatest Explorers of the World: In this book, readers will explore the lives of the five greatest explorers in history, whose voyages reshaped our understanding of the world. Kalyani Mookherji showcases the courage, curiosity, and determination of these explorers in their pursuit of knowledge and adventure. Together, this selected books kit by Kalyani Mookherji offers a captivating journey through the lives of the world's top explorers, celebrating their remarkable achievements and the enduring impact they have had on the course of human history. The author - Kalyani Mookherji - is a celebrated writer and historian with a passion for exploring the lives of influential explorers. Through this selected books kit, she aims to inspire readers with the adventurous spirit and trailblazing journeys of the world's top explorers, highlighting their contributions to human progress and knowledge.

A Collection of Popular Dictators and Explorers Biography Kit By Kalyani Mookherji (5 Greatest Dictators of the World + Top 5 Dictators of the World + 5 Greatest Explorers of the World) by Kalyani Mookherji: This unique biography kit presents a comprehensive exploration of the lives of both influential dictators and explorers who have left a significant impact on history. Authored by Kalyani Mookherji, these books delve into the lives, actions, and legacies of the world's greatest dictators and explorers. 5 Greatest Dictators of the World: In this book, readers will discover the stories of five of the most influential dictators in history. Kalyani Mookherji presents a comprehensive analysis of their rise to power, rule, and the impact they had on their respective countries and the world. Top 5 Dictators of the World: This book showcases the lives of five dictators who made a lasting mark on history through their actions and rule. Kalyani Mookherji sheds light on the controversial and transformative aspects of their leadership. 5 Greatest Explorers of the World: In this book, readers will explore the extraordinary journeys of five of the world's greatest explorers. Kalyani Mookherji presents their adventures, discoveries, and contributions to human knowledge and understanding. Together, this biography kit by Kalyani Mookherji offers a balanced perspective on both dictators and explorers, providing readers with a deeper understanding of their actions and impact on history. From influential rulers to trailblazing explorers, these biographies provide a captivating glimpse into the lives of individuals who have shaped the course of human history. The author - Kalyani Mookherji - is a celebrated writer and historian with a passion for exploring the lives of influential figures from various backgrounds. Through this biography kit, she aims to offer readers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of both dictators and explorers, celebrating their achievements and the enduring impact they have had on the world.