... a new crusade), Columbus and others viewed the New World as an opportunity to expand Europe's influence through the seizing of gold and territory, and the conversion of the native populous to Christianity. Similar goals and aspirations in expanding the borders of Christendom were expressed in The Song of Roland, which tinkered with actual history in order to portray the massacre of Charlemagne's rear-guard in 778 as part of an ongoing effort to gain wealth ... and territory and to convert the Muslims to Christianity. This mindset of expansion was not ... ...

• Word Count: 2887
• Approx Pages: 12
• Grade Level: Undergraduate