Writings from this time period were extremely valuable to Spanish and other European rulers due to the vast knowledge of the New World displayed by Columbus and his men through accounts of specific land masses they discovered. In many instances, Columbus included exact measurements of the land mas as well as actions of the natives. Information such as this provides insight to Spanish rulers including the extent of Columbus’s discovery and its value to the Spanish nation. Columbus proclaims his victory to the Spanish monarch by describing land he declared in the name of Spain: “And there I found very many islands filled with people innumerable, and of them all I have taken possession for their highnesses… and no opposition was offered to me”
