When Constantinople fell to the Ottomans in 1453, the long-established trade routes to the East became treacherous and expensive. Enterprising young men took to the sea in search of new lands, new routes, new markets, and of course the possibility of glory and vast fortunes. Historian Boyle reveals that the race was, in fact, as much about commerce and trade as it was about discovery and conquest. Contrary to popular belief, Cabot, Columbus, and Vespucci not only knew of each other, they were well acquainted. As each attempted to curry favor with various monarchs across Europe, they used news of the others' successes and failures to further their claims and to garner support from investors. The intrigue, espionage, and treachery that abounded in the courts of Europe provide a compelling backdrop for the intersection of dreams and business ventures that led the way to our modern world.--From publisher description.