This compact synthesis of David J. Weber's prize-winning history of colonial Spanish North America vividly tells the story of Spain's three-hundred-year tenure on the continent. From the first Spanish-Indian contact through Spain's gradual retreat, Weber offers a balanced assessment of the impact of each civilization upon the other. Praise for the previous edition: "I cannot imagine a single book giving a more comprehensive and balanced study of Spain's presence in North America."Louis Kleber,History Today "For readers seeking to understand the larger meaning of the Spanish heritage in North America, Weber's vivid narrative is a must. This is social and cultural history at its best."Howard R. Lamar, Yale University "A superb study."Choice "[A] deeply researched and splendidly conceived and written survey."Alvin M. Josephy, Jr.,New York Times Book Review