Terra Australis Incognita; Or, A New Southern Discovery, containing A Fifth Part of the World

by Pedro Fernandes de Queirós

"Terra Australis Incognita; Or, A New Southern Discovery, containing A Fifth Part of the WORLD; Lately found out by FERDINAND DE QUIR, A Spanish Captain" is a historical account written in the early 17th century. This book describes the exploratory endeavors of Captain Ferdinand de Quir in his quest to discover and document the unknown southern lands, believed to be rich in resources and potential for colonization. The narrative reflects the motivations and aspirations of European explorers during the Age of Discovery, seeking new territories for expansion and glory. In the text, de Quir presents a detailed depiction of the lands he encountered, highlighting their fertility, diverse inhabitants, and potential wealth in natural resources such as silver, pearls, and various kinds of fruits and spices. He passionately petitions the King of Spain for support in establishing colonies, arguing the lands are ripe for settlement and trade, free from the threats of neighboring empires. The vivid descriptions of the landscapes, the customs and simple lifestyles of the indigenous peoples, and the rich natural offerings convey not only the allure of new discoveries but also the fervent desire for Christian evangelization and imperial expansion. Through his observations, de Quir conveys a sense of hope and urgency for his vision, advocating for the significant benefits that colonization could bring to both Spain and its new southern territories.