Anghiera, Pietro Martire d'

About the author

Pietro Martire d'Anghiera (1457–1526), commonly known as Peter Martyr d'Anghera, was a pivotal Italian humanist, historian, and Vatican official during the Renaissance. Born in Montella, Italy, d'Anghera pursued extensive studies in law and humanist literature, which equipped him with the scholarly expertise that would define his influential career.

As a significant figure in the Catholic Church, d'Anghera held various important positions, including that of Secretary to Pope Alexander VI. His most renowned work, De Orbe Novo (On the New World), is a monumental history of the Spanish exploration and colonization of the Americas. Commissioned by the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, this comprehensive two-volume work was based on firsthand accounts from explorers, missionaries, and indigenous people, offering one of the earliest detailed European perspectives on the New World.

De Orbe Novo is celebrated for its meticulous documentation and balanced narrative, providing insights into the geographical, cultural, and political landscapes of the newly encountered continents. D'Anghera's work stands out for its attempt to present an objective account, acknowledging both the achievements and the atrocities committed during the colonization process. This duality has made De Orbe Novo a critical resource for historians studying the Age of Exploration and the early interactions between Europeans and indigenous populations in the Americas.

Beyond his historical writings, d'Anghera contributed significantly to the humanist movement in Italy, advocating for the integration of classical knowledge with contemporary thought. His diplomatic skills and intellectual prowess earned him respect within the Vatican and the broader European scholarly community. D'Anghera's legacy is further cemented by his influence on subsequent historians and writers who drew inspiration from his balanced approach to documenting history.

Pietro Martire d'Anghiera's dedication to accurate historical recording and his commitment to humanist principles have left an indelible mark on the fields of history and literature. His efforts to provide a comprehensive and fair account of the New World continue to be valued by scholars and serve as a foundation for understanding the complex dynamics of early European colonial endeavors.