With support from the University of Richmond

History News Network

History News Network puts current events into historical perspective. Subscribe to our newsletter for new perspectives on the ways history continues to resonate in the present. Explore our archive of thousands of original op-eds and curated stories from around the web. Join us to learn more about the past, now.

King's letter reveals epic voyage (England)

A long-lost letter revealing details of the first Englishman to lead an expedition to North America is to be published in a historical journal.

Written by King Henry VII, it suggests that Bristol merchant William Weston sailed to the New World in 1499.

Bristol University's Dr Evan Jones said it was "an exciting find" that gave a glimpse of a previously unknown, but epic achievement.

The document gives little detail, but makes a tantalising reference to Weston's voyage.

Read entire article at BBC