Jean de Béthencourt (1362–1425) was a French explorer who in 1402 led an expedition to the Canary Islands, landing first on the north side of Lanzarote. From there he conquered for Castile the islands of Fuerteventura (1405) and El Hierro, ousting their local chieftains (majos and bimbaches, ancient peoples). Béthencourt received the title King of the Canary Islands but he recognized King Henry III of Castile, who had provided aid during the conquest, as his overlord. Years later Bethencourt was defeated by the aboriginals of the island of Gran Canaria (canarios) in the battle of Arguineguin at south of the island.

Hakluyt Society First Series, XLVI; 8vo (22.5 x 15 cm); 2 plates including frontispiece, 1 map, ex libris Inner Temple Library with bookplates and stamps, withdrawn stamp to titles, occasional light waterstaining not affecting legibility; original publisher's gilt blue cloth, boards slightly dampstained, spine a little darkened with small chip to head, a good copy; [8], lv, 229pp.