Galleons were large sailing ships developed in Spain and Portugal. Term "galeon" originated from Venetian oared vessels in 15th century. Pedro Menéndez and Álvaro de Bazán designed definitive long-hulled galleon in 1550s
Musket appeared as smoothbore weapon in early 16th century. Term "musket" first recorded in Europe in 1499. Heavy arquebus version emerged by 1521, capable of penetrating plate armour. Musketeers first infantry to give up armor completely
Renaissance in Italy and Europe led to important scientific discoveries. Copernicus proposed heliocentric universe, challenging Ptolemy's theory. Galileo invented thermometer and made significant scientific contributions. Copernicus published his theory of Sun-centered universe in 1543
Monte created a 60-sheet world map in Milan in 1587. This is the largest known early world map at 10 feet square. Only one other manuscript copy exists
First American map printed by Sebastian Münster in 1554. Maps by Diego Ribero (1529) and Abraham Ortelius (1570). Maps by Frederik de Wit (1610) and Nicholas Sanson (1656)
Won National Book Critics Circle Award. Named among New York Times' top 10 best books of 2023. Selected by Bill Gates as favorite book of the year. Received New York Public Library's Best Book award