Invading Colombia: Spanish Accounts of the Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada Expedition of Conquest (Latin American Originals)

There is precious little information on the conquest of Colombia. This book draws together various sources to give a history of the conquest of Colombia which should be on the shelf of any serious student of Latin American history. It is a brief book due to the lack of sources, but it is neatly laid out and serves as an essential reference.

This could have been a much better work if more context was included, also better maps. As such it it just a translation (good) of a series of primary sources. On the other hand it is not clear when the text of the primary source begins and when the opinion of the Mr. Francis continues.

Had to get after attending a history session and hearing author speak.

This is an excellent history of an often overlooked subject, the Spanish conquest of Colombia. Dr. Michael Francis exhibits a deep knowledge of his subject, and provides many new insights into our understanding of the processes whereby northern South America became part of the Spanish empire. The comparisons to Pizarro's invasion of the Andes are particularly helpful. Best of all, the narrative is exciting and often tragic, with dramatic stories that will remain in your mind for a long time.

Invading Colombia is surely the best firsthand document available for non-spanish readers. Original documents are (almost) integrally reproduced, but it's more than a simple replica. The paratext, written by J.Michael Francis gives essentials englightment on the documents. Abundant footpage notes are useful as well.Very serious piece of work.