A Voyage Long and Strange

A Voyage Long and Strange chronicles the lesser-known period of early American exploration between Columbus's arrival in 1492 and the landing of the Pilgrims in 1620. Author Tony Horwitz retraces the routes of early European expeditions across North America, visiting historical sites and investigating how these forgotten chapters of history still resonate today. Horwitz combines historical research with present-day travelogue as he follows the paths of Spanish conquistadors, French Huguenots, and other early explorers through Florida, the American Southwest, and New England. He speaks with historians, archaeologists, and local residents to understand both the historical record and current interpretations of these events. The narrative moves between past and present, connecting centuries-old events to modern landscapes and communities. Horwitz's dual role as historian and travel writer allows him to examine how Americans remember - or forget - the complex origins of their nation. This work challenges conventional wisdom about America's beginnings while exploring themes of historical memory, national identity, and the gap between myth and fact in how societies tell their origin stories.

Readers appreciate Horwitz's blend of historical research and modern-day road trip reporting as he traces early European exploration of North America. Many note his engaging writing style makes complex historical events accessible and entertaining. Positive reviews highlight: - Clear debunking of common myths about early American history - Personal travel narratives that connect past to present - Humor and self-deprecating tone - Detailed research presented in digestible format Common criticisms: - Occasional meandering narrative structure - Too much focus on modern travel experiences vs. history - Some historical segments feel rushed Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (8,900+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (460+ ratings) Sample reader comment: "Horwitz has a knack for finding quirky characters in out-of-the-way places who help bring historical events to life" - Amazon reviewer Notable complaint: "The author sometimes gets sidetracked with lengthy descriptions of his road trip meals and lodging that don't advance the historical narrative" - Goodreads reviewer

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🌟 Tony Horwitz retraced the routes of early explorers across America, traveling 16,000 miles by car to research this book firsthand. 🗺️ The author discovered that Vikings reached North America around 1000 CE, nearly 500 years before Columbus, establishing a settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland. ⚔️ Many of Coronado's men wore cotton armor instead of metal when exploring the American Southwest, as it was better suited to the climate and could stop arrows. 🏛️ The book reveals that St. Augustine, Florida, not Plymouth, Massachusetts, is actually America's oldest permanent European settlement, founded in 1565. 🌿 De Soto's expedition inadvertently changed Native American civilization by leaving behind pigs that escaped, multiplied, and introduced European diseases to indigenous populations.