This is a short history of the age of exploration and the conquest of the Americas told through the experience of Bartolome 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