History for ready reference, Volume 2, El Dorado to Greaves

"History for Ready Reference, Volume 2, El Dorado to Greaves" by J. N. Larned is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work serves as a continuation of the first volume, compiling significant historical narratives and accounts from various periods, covering both well-known events and obscure tales. The focus is on providing a comprehensive overview of history through excerpts from prominent historians and biographers, making it useful for both casual readers and students of history. The opening of this volume addresses the legendary quest for El Dorado, highlighting the Spanish explorers' insatiable greed for gold and wealth in the New World. It recounts the fanciful stories that grew out of rumors about a gilded king or a rich city hidden in the jungles of South America, illustrating how these myths spurred relentless exploration and often catastrophic expeditions led by adventurous figures such as Sir Walter Raleigh. This section sets the tone for the type of historical explorations the volume will cover, emphasizing the intersection of ambition, myth, and the harsh realities faced by those who pursued wealth at any cost.