Marco Polo's Travels
(1300 A.D.)
Book 3, Chapter 4
[The following text led to the discovery of America.
These passages, written by Marco Polo, motivated Christopher Columbus to
find an alternative route to the Indies. Going Eastward had become almost
impossible since the Middle East was occupied by Muslims who would not
allow Christians safe passage.]
It should be understood that the sea in
which the Island of Zipangu [Japan] is situated is the sea of CHIN, and
so extensive is this eastern sea that according to experienced pilots and
mariners, who should know, it contains no fewer than 7,440 islands, mostly
inhabited. It is said that every one of the trees which grow in them gives
off a fragrant odor. They produce many spices and drugs, particularly aloes,
and much pepper, both white and black.
It is impossible to estimate the value of gold and other
articles found in these islands. Their distance from the continent is so
great, and the navigation so difficult, that vessels sailing there do not
reap large profits; for they consume a whole year in the voyage.
We shall here treat no further of these countries and
islands because of my not having visited them personally and their not
being under the dominion of the Great Khan.